MURRAY — A 38-year-old Hyrum man made his initial appearance in court after being arrested for allegedly physically abusing a 12-year-old boy. Cody Blaine Cook was initially arrested Jan. 31, following an investigation by the Cache County Sheriff’s Office.
According to an affidavit of probable cause, deputies received a report of the assault from a school nurse who treated the alleged victim. The boy claimed Cook slapped him and his brother and then kicked him in the head multiple times.
Witnesses told deputies that Cook had become enraged when he caught the boys vaping. He allegedly kicked the alleged victim in the head three times, while wearing work boots.
A week later, Cook allegedly assaulted the boy again, hitting him multiple times. The alleged victim had bruises on his cheek and a red mark on his elbow, according to court documents.
When deputies arrested Cook, they reportedly located THC vape cartridges in his vehicle. He reportedly claimed to have a valid medical marijuana card, but law enforcement was unable to find an authorized license.
While being questioned by deputies, Cook reportedly admitted to having been upset during both incidents. He was booked into the Cache County Jail and later released on $15,000 bail.
According to court records, Cook made his initial appearance March 24 in Logan’s 1st District Court. He was charged with two counts of aggravated child abuse, a second-degree felony; and possession or use of a controlled substance, a class B misdemeanor.
Cook was ordered to appear again in court May 12. He could face up to 15 years in prison, if convicted.
Individuals arrested and charged in complaints are presumed innocent unless or until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in court.