Manslaughter and assault charges dropped in Crookston foster child death

VALENTINE, Neb. — A Crookston woman previously charged in connection with the death of a foster child has had two of the most serious charges against her dismissed.

As News Channel Nebraska reported last year, Aquila Herman was charged with manslaughter, first-degree assault and intentional child abuse resulting in death. Court records now show the manslaughter and first-degree assault charges have been dropped. The remaining charge has been reduced to intentional child abuse resulting in injury, and Herman has pleaded guilty.

According to an affidavit, Herman called 911 at 12:44 a.m. on Oct. 8, 2024, reporting that her foster child had fallen from his bed and was unresponsive. The infant was later identified as Benjamin Yellow Eyes.

Responding officers noted what they described as suspicious circumstances at the home, including bloodstains on bedsheets near the head of the bed and visible bruising on the baby’s face.

After Benjamin was transported to the hospital and pronounced dead, authorities documented additional injuries.

“Benjamin had broken blood vessels in the corners of his eyes. The bruises on his face were clearer and the placement of the bruises were consistent with the placement of fingertips gripping his face,” the affidavit states. “He had bruises on the inside of both his upper and lower lip. His tongue had a wound that indicated that he had bitten it hard. There was bruising behind both of his ears, and his left ear was reddish purple with bruising.”

Court documents also describe a large bruise along the child’s left flank wrapping around his body, which investigators said was consistent with a firm grip. Additional bruising was noted on his knees and the soles of his feet, along with other documented injuries.

Sentencing is scheduled for April 23.