The grandmother of the Washington man accused of abusing his girlfriend's son is speaking out in support of him.

Geri Shurts says Timothy Johnston provided love and financial support for the 3-year-old boy. Authorities say Johnston seriously injured the child with a kick to the groin and slapped the toddler in the face March 28, at his girlfriend's home.

Shurts admits Johnston has an anger problem because of an incident in prison a few years ago.

"He respects life. I cannot believe that the kick was intentional or the fall was intentional. I do believe he slapped him and that was wrong, but it's not something that he should possibly go to prison for 6-30 years," said Shurts.

She says she often saw Johnston and his girlfriend Amber Dickey along with her children. Shurts says Johnston never showed violent behavior towards the kids.

"He is very loving, he is very soft hearted. He has know this child for a year. He's basically been a big part of their financial support. The child was non-verbal before Tim entered his life."

Johnston is in Tazewell County jail on $100,000 bond on charges of felony battery of a child. He's due back in court April 24.