Downstate dad accused of putting toddler in dryer

EDWARDSVILLE -- A 21-year-old southern Illinois man was arrested on Father's Day after allegedly putting his 2-year-old son in a clothes dryer and burning him on the cheek with a cigarette.

Derek Hill Sr. of Edwardsville and his wife, 27-year-old Eva Hill, are charged with aggravated battery of a child. Bond has been set at $50,000 each.

Police say Eva Hill was charged because she knew about the abuse but didn't stop it.

Madison County sheriff's deputies went to the couple's home Sunday after social workers alleged the child was being abused.

Sheriff's Capt. Brad Wells says it was "very obvious" the boy had been physically abused.

The boy and his 1-year-old sibling are in protective custody with the Department of Children and Family Services.