Bakersfield man accused of hitting toddler in face to be released after bail reduced

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- A Bakersfield man accused of hitting a toddler in the face is expected to be released from jail on Saturday. The abuse was caught on video, and we want to warn you that it is disturbing.

The little boy was seen running away from a man inside the Vest Market in Downtown Bakersfield. Then seconds later, the suspect strikes him in the face, knocking the toddler to the ground.

Police arrested Justin Whittington, 23, for the crime Friday morning. But on Saturday, his bail amount was reduced from $1 million to $20,000.

The child was checked by paramedics and is said to be OK.