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Greensburg Woman In Court, Accused Of Shaking Baby

WESTMORELAND COUNTY (KDKA) – A Greensburg woman was in court this morning, accused of shaking a child she was babysitting.

Jessica Nichols, 22, is charged with aggravated assault and endangering the welfare of children.

A judge determined Friday that Nichols will go to trial and she will not get a bond reduction.

Security and emotions were high at the hearing.

Sheriff's deputies stood watch, searching everyone entering the preliminary hearing for Nichols.

"This is an emotionally charged case and we received an anonymous tip there may be an altercation at this hearing," said Westmoreland County Sheriff Jonathan Held.

Nichols is accused of shaking a baby she was watching, causing severe injuries.

The girl's mother says she didn't know if her daughter, Scylla Conner, would survive after she suffered two brain bleeds and hemorrhages in her eyes.

The 10-month-old also suffered a serious injury to her mouth.

"I feel she was the one who did it, point blank," said the girl's mother April Dittmar.

Nichols said nothing during the hearing, her attorney asked for a dismissal saying no one witnessed his client put a hand on the child.

Nichols told police she was babysitting Scylla, who was injured after rough housing with her little boy and falling to the ground.

Scylla continues to recover, her prognosis unknown.

"It's a daily struggle ... it's a shame, that's how it is," said Dittmar.

Despite a request for bond, Nichols remains in the Westmoreland County Jail on $50,000 bond.

Stay with KDKA for more information.

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