By ANDREA VanVALKENBURG
CHESTERFIELD — Police said a local man was drunk when he allegedly punched a toddler in the face Tuesday night, leaving the boy bruised and unconscious.
Keeseville-based State Police were called to William Wisher's apartment around 8 p.m. after they were contacted about a domestic dispute in progress.
When troopers arrived, they reportedly found the 37-year-old highly intoxicated and belligerent, arguing with two women he'd just allegedly assaulted.
After interviewing the women, police believe the altercation began when Wisher's girlfriend returned home and tried to enter their apartment.
Troopers said Wisher refused to let her in and threw a beer can at her.
Hearing the commotion, a female neighbor tried to defuse the situation, police said.
Troopers said Wisher attempted to attack the neighbor and then punched her 2-year-old son in the face when he stepped into the hallway.
The toddler was briefly knocked unconscious and taken to CVPH Medical Center, where he was treated and then released.
Police said Wednesday that the boy was bruised and recovering at home, but they did not believe he suffered any lasting head trauma as a result of the alleged attack.
Wisher was taken into custody on felony assault and weapons charges.
He was also charged with misdemeanor counts of assault and endangering the welfare of a child.
Police said the weapons charge was lodged against Wisher because he used a beer can to injure one of the victims.
He was arraigned in Lewis Town Court and was later sent to Essex County Jail on $2,500 cash bail or $5,000 bond.
Wisher was still being held there Wednesday morning and is scheduled to appear in Chesterfield Town Court next week to face the five charges.
Police said orders of protection were issued for the two women and the child.
E-mail Andrea VanValkenburg at: avanvalkenburg@pressrepublican.com
