SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WICS) -- Steven Griffin has been indicted on eight counts, including first-degree murder, in connection with the prolonged abuse and subsequent death of his 16-year-old stepson, Daniel Garza.

Sangamon County State's Attorney John Milhiser announced the charges, which stem from allegations that Griffin failed to provide adequate food and water and inflicted blunt force injuries on Garza, leading to his death.

The indictment details a harrowing account of abuse, including allegations that Griffin intentionally inflicted torture on Garza, causing extreme physical pain. Griffin is accused of throwing hot water on Garza, resulting in severe burns to his face, neck, and chest. Additionally, Griffin faces charges of aggravated domestic battery for allegedly striking Garza with nunchucks and stomping on his ankle, causing a fracture.

The family, including Garza's biological mother, Kristin Griffin, moved to Springfield from Washington in November 2024 and had been living in hotels. On January 27, 2025, Garza was taken to St. John's Hospital by his mother and stepfather. Upon arrival, he was unresponsive, not breathing, and had a body temperature of 86 degrees. Weighing only 94 pounds, Garza suffered from a subdural hemorrhage, burns, bruising, and fractures. He was transferred to St. Louis Children's Hospital and later to Indianapolis for specialized care, where he died on February 7, 2025.

In addition to the murder charges, Griffin is charged with endangering the life or health of a child and abuse or criminal neglect of a person with a disability. He also faces separate charges in an unrelated case involving a 16-year-old female from Springfield, including aggravated criminal sexual abuse and indecent solicitation of a child.