Claremore Man Sentenced to 12 Years in Federal Prison for Abusing an Infant

A Claremore man who abused a 5-month-old infant at a home in Vinita was sentenced Friday in federal court, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.

Chief U.S. District Judge John F. Heil III sentenced Keldon Keith Summers, 28, to 12 years in federal prison followed by five years of supervised release.

“My office will vigorously prosecute criminals who cause harm to the most innocent in our communities- our children,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “Keldon Summers’ violent abuse of an infant left the child with permanent injuries and the need for continued care. This child abuser will spend 12 years in federal prison to account for his despicable crime.”

“I am extremely proud of the collaborative effort that brought Keldon Summers to justice for his detestable crime,” said FBI Oklahoma City Special Agent in Charge Edward J. Gray. “Today’s sentence ensures there is one less abuser victimizing the most innocent and vulnerable members of our communities.”

Summers previously pleaded guilty to child abuse in Indian Country. In his plea agreement, Summers admitted that in the early morning hours of Nov. 8, 2020, he was taking care of a 5-month-old while the infant’s mother was at work and during that time, he abused the infant. The child suffered bruising on his cheek down to his chin that resembled a bite mark, and bruising on his arm, his buttocks, and on his back and chest. He further suffered a swollen penis and left testicle, a fracture of his upper tibia, and extensive retinal hemorrhaging.

Additionally, the child tested positive for methamphetamine. The child had multiple seizures after being life flighted to the hospital that day. He remained in the hospital for three weeks and today requires medication, therapy, and continued care as a result of his injuries.

The FBI and Vinita Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stacey P. Todd and Vani Singhal prosecuted the case.