By Howard Packowitz
BLOOMINGTON – The largest courtroom at the McLean County Law and Justice Center could not accommodate a standing-room only crowd showing support for former pastor Matthew Everly of Bloomington, who was found not guilty Monday of injuring his infant daughter.
Judge Casey Costigan said he could only guess how two-week old Olivia Everly suffered two broken legs and a broken elbow. Costigan added he’s not convinced the child was hurt during a diaper change last spring, which was the prosecution’s theory of the case.
“I don’t know what happened,” said Costigan.
Everly, who left his position as a minister at Eastview Christian Church after his arrest, could have spent the rest of his life in prison had he been convicted on all 11 charges, including aggravated battery to a child, aggravated domestic battery, and reckless conduct.
Assistant McLean County State’s Attorney Erika Reynolds argued there was sufficient circumstantial evidence to convict Everly because he was the only person who provided an explanation for what may have happened. He told police he may have pressed down on the child’s legs a little too hard while changing the baby’s diaper.
Everly said he was “racking” his brain to come up with some explanation, and he was certain he did not cause Olivia’s injuries.
Everly testified he never yanked or twisted the baby’s legs or arms even as the baby cried and screamed whenever someone changed her diaper.
“She cried a lot,” said Everly. Diaper changes were “an event,” he added.
Everly denied prosecutor Reynolds’ contention that he was so frustrated and sleep-deprived that he “lost his cool” and hurt the child.
Defense attorney Scott Kording, who becomes an associate judge on January 18, said the community is “scratching its head” about the accusations.
Kording said to Costigan, “I’m going to ask that you clear his name.”
Kording was in tears after the verdict, as were many of Everly’s backers. In the hallway, some exclaimed, “Hallelujah!”
In a prepared statement, Everly’s defense team said the verdict was “complete vindication.”
“The Everlys have been through a nightmare during the last seven months. Matt and his wife, Emily, plan to continue raising their young daughter, who is healthy and thriving in their care.”
McLean County State’s Attorney Don Knapp declined comment on the case.
Howard Packowitz can be reached at [email protected]
