A Peoria man has been sentenced to 22 years in prison for choking two young girls who were in his care.

Reports state 28-year-old Antwon Glover received 11 years on each of 2 counts of aggravated domestic battery.

The girls, ages 5 and 7, were at Glover's house on May 26 of last year when the abuse occurred.

After seeing the older girl's condition, concerned neighbors called the police.

At his sentencing Friday, Glover told the judge he was innocent.

The 5-year-old was too overcome with emotion to read a statement on how the attack affected her. She froze after a few words and handed the statement to the judge to read.

Circuit Judge Steve Kouri said a long sentence was necessary to protect the children.