A 21-year-old northern Idaho man who pleaded guilty to critically injuring his 20-day-old son has been sentenced to 15 years in prison.

However he could be released much sooner depending on how he does in a yearlong prison program chosen by the Idaho Department of Correction.

First District Court Judge John Luster sentenced James D. Blanchard on Friday for felony injury to a child but retained jurisdiction.

Luster will receive treatment for a year and be evaluated before returning for another hearing.

Luster will then decide if additional time in prison is needed.

A medical doctor testified the child continues to suffer brain impairment from the injuries received in July of last year, lost his vision and will likely never walk or talk.