Maine Man Will Serve 25 Years for the Death of His Infant Son

A Maine man is going to prison for 25 years for the death of his 1-month-old son.

Who Was Sentenced?

It's been almost two years since Reginald Melvin was charged with depraved indifference murder for the beating death of his son, Sylus Melvin. He pleaded guilty to domestic violence manslaughter on Thursday.

Melvin was sentenced to 30 years, with all but 25 years suspended. He will also serve six years on conditional probation.

How Did His Son Die?

WGME-TV reports that court documents detailed the child's extensive injuries. The one-month-old had fractured bones and cuts on his organs when he died. The official cause of death was determined to be blunt force trauma on several parts of his body, including fractured bones and hemorrhaging in his head and stomach.

Officials say Melvin has a history of domestic violence, dating back to 2012. He has been charged more than a dozen times with domestic abuse-related incidents.

Where Can I Find Help If I'm Experiencing Abuse?

If you or someone you know is being affected by domestic abuse, help is available. Counselors are ready to talk to you 24/7 on the statewide domestic abuse helpline - 1-866-834-HELP. (1-866-834-4357) People who are deaf or hard of hearing can find help at 1-800-437-1220.

Find more information about domestic abuse and the resources available in the state on the Maine Coalition to End Domestic Violence Website. Or residents can dial 211 to find resources available in their community.