Cops: N. Aurora man poured 'caustic liquid' on child

A North Aurora man has been charged with heinous battery and aggravated battery to a child, accused of burning an 18-month-old boy so badly that all his toes had to be amputated, police said.

Judge Timothy Sheldon denied a motion Wednesday to reduce the $500,000 bail of Jason Barnes, 36, of the 700 block of Lloyd Lane.

Barnes was indicted by a Kane County grand jury Dec. 1 on the two Class X battery charges on which, if convicted, he could serve six to 45 years in prison, and perhaps as many as 60 if extended sentencing rules apply.

The sealed indictment also charged him with aggravated domestic battery, a Class 2 felony.

The case was investigated by the Kane County Child Advocacy Center.

Court documents allege that on Aug. 15, 2009, while standing near a sink, Barnes poured "a caustic liquid" on the boy, causing third-degree burns to his lower half. Any liquid that burns or corrodes organic material is considered caustic.

Barnes is related to the child. The mother had taken out an order of protection against Barnes last year, but it was later modified in May to allow visitation. The couple was due in family court Dec. 1.

If he posts bond, one of the conditions would be that he is not to have any contact with any child younger than 17.

Barnes is on probation for aggravated driving under the influence. He's been accused of violating probation. His next court date is Dec. 17.