A Libby man who admitted to beating and causing serious injuries to his infant son last year was sentenced in October to serve time in the Montana State Prison.

Lincoln County District Court Judge Matt Cuffe sentenced 25-year-old Masin Reed Payne to 20 years, 10 suspended, to the facility in Deer Lodge. 

Payne pleaded guilty Aug. 25 to felony assault on a minor, victim under 36 months, serious injury. 

Previous court filings detailed the extent of the 4-month-old’s abuse, which involved nine broken ribs, bruising on his head, and severe bruising on the buttocks, the back of the thighs and genital area.

County Attorney Marcia Boris argued for a 20-year sentence with 10 years suspended. Defense attorney Maury Solomon sought a 20-year sentence with 15 years suspended.

“This sentence is needed to protect the most vulnerable in our society,” Boris said. “[Masin] said he snapped, but the medical evidence showed he may have snapped on more than one occasion.”

According to court officials and associated documents, the mother of the child has moved back to Texas and secured a protective order that doesn’t expire until May 16, 2043. Divorce proceedings have also begun.

Solomon said Payne has demonstrated he’s done well in the last year and has new, sober friends and the support of his family.

Payne offered a brief statement.

“Since the terrible event, it’s been a hard journey of love and sorrow,” he said. “I know I can use this to strengthen myself. I am blessed to have amazing parents and friends and their support.”

Three people spoke in support of Payne, including his father, Brian Payne, and sister Mariah Payne, as well as friend and employer, Jacob Hines.

Mariah Payne lived with the family when the abuse happened. She said she would be available to support him when the time comes.

“He’s a very good person and I genuinely believe he’s grieving what happened,” she said. “He’s kept himself busy with work and helping my dad.”

Brian Payne agreed it was very serious and that he expected a lengthy sentence.

Solomon asked him what he’s seen of his son since he moved back home following his arrest.

“My fiance and I have provided support and structure and would continue that,” Brian Payne said. “It’s been very tragic for everyone involved, but we’ll continue to be there for Masin when he gets out.”

Hines said Masin has worked for him at his tree trimming business.

“He does the climbing for me,” Hines said. “He’s definitely a hard worker.”

Hines, who is involved in Brothers in Christ, said he introduced Masin to his spirituality. 

Boris asked Hines if he had children and he said he didn’t.

Cuffe said he didn’t discount the statements of support, but “the injuries aren’t isolated and it was recognized that multiple injuries were healing and then reinflicted.”

Payne’s bail was originally set at $150,000 before he was released on his own recognizance July 8, 2024. He was taken into custody following Monday’s hearing.