Donated Christmas gifts are pouring in for a 3-year-old Plaistow boy who police said was beaten and burned a horrific child abuse case.

James Nicholson is recovering from his injuries—which doctors fear could be long-lasting—at his grandmother's Kingston home after spending about three weeks in the hospital.

Meanwhile, Plaistow police have collected dozens of presents donated by people from all over the region.

"It's been wonderful," said Police Chief Stephen Savage. "People are rallying behind him."

James' case became a national story when doctors at Exeter Hospital discovered his injuries and alerted authorities. His mother, Jessica Linscott, and her boyfriend, Roland Dow, both of Plaistow, fled New Hampshire and evaded police for nearly two weeks. They were finally captured at Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida.

Police said Dow repeatedly struck the boy in the head and burned his arms. He was charged with first-degree assault and faces up to 30 years in prison.

Linscott was charged with misdemeanor-level child endangerment for not immediately seeking help for her son, police said. She told authorities that the boy's wounds were self-inflicted.

James suffered brain damage and was temporarily blinded, police said.

"It's been a disgusting event," Savage said. "He was only 3 years old."

Plaistow police are holding the gifts for James under a Christmas tree in a room at their police station.

"We'd love to see this room filled," Savage said.

Those wanting to contribute can call Plaistow police at 603-382-1200.

STORY ARCHIVE

• Authorities: Abused Plaistow Boy Released from Hospital
• High Bail for Fugitives in Child Abuse Case
• Fugitives in Child Abuse Case Coming Back to NH
• 'Suspicion' That Fugitive Couple Had Help
• Plaistow Couple Being Held in Protective Custody
• CAUGHT: Plaistow Couple Wanted for Child Abuse Caught in Florida
• Alleged Baby-Burning Couple Continue to Evade Police
• Mistaken Identity Leads to Arrest in Fugitive Couple Case
• County Attorney: 'Surrender Yourselves'
• Police Hunting for Couple Who Allegedly Burned Son

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