A Poway Marine facing felony child abuse charges was scheduled to be arraigned Friday.
Investigators said Cpl. James Charles repeatedly beat his 3-month-old-son, Owen. Owen's mother, Megan Charles, said she took Owen to Children's Hospital earlier this month because he didn't look well. Doctors reported the incident to the San Diego County Sheriff's Department, and detectives eventually arrested the baby's father.
Investigators said Charles admitted dropping and shaking Owen more than 30 times.
Megan said James has not been the same since he returned from a deployment to Iraq.
"I just think that it happened so fast -- him coming home from Iraq, getting married having a child -- the stress and pressure was too much for him," Megan said. "He's a good man. He really is. It's just too much for one person to handle."
Owen is in protective custody. Detectives said the infant may have suffered brain damage.
The arraignment is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. at the San Diego County Courthouse.
