A Hopkins man is facing felony charges after prosecutors say a 2-year-old child suffered a fractured leg and other injuries consistent with excessive punishment.
The allegations came to light in July 2025, when Eagan police were called to a home after concerns were raised about possible child maltreatment involving a young child who had been dropped off earlier that day.
Prosecutors allege the abuse occurred during multiple incidents between late June and early July 2025.
Leoul Berhany Getachew, 34, is charged in Hennepin County District Court with felony malicious punishment of a child, gross misdemeanor malicious punishment of a child and gross misdemeanor neglect of a child. Authorities allege he used unreasonable force or cruel discipline that resulted in substantial bodily harm and later failed to obtain necessary medical care between July 1 and July 10, 2025.
During a follow-up visit July 9, the mother told investigators she had not witnessed the injury and said Getachew told her the child fell off the trampoline. She said she suggested seeking medical care multiple times but was told by Getachew that the child was fine. When asked if she was concerned someone had abused her child, the mother responded that she was and the child had a fracture, according to the complaint.
Investigators also learned Getachew continued staying at the apartment despite an agreed safety plan requiring separation from the children while the investigation continued. Authorities noted there is now an open child protection case connected to the allegations.
Prosecutors said the case was charged by summons due to the age of the investigation, the known location of those involved and ongoing monitored conditions. A jail booking photo is not yet available.
Court records show Getachew has prior criminal convictions, including a felony first-degree DWI conviction in Hennepin County in 2015 along with multiple earlier misdemeanor and gross misdemeanor impaired-driving offenses. Records also show an active warrant connected to a traffic-related case filed in 2025.
If convicted of the felony malicious punishment charge, Getachew faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
