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Two parents in Lapeer County, Michigan are facing serious felony charges after authorities say their infant child was found with multiple severe injuries, prompting an ongoing criminal investigation.

Investigation Begins After Infant Found Unresponsive in Lapeer County

According to the Lapeer County Sheriff’s Office, the investigation began in November 2025 after emergency responders were called to assist a two-month-old infant reported to be unresponsive and lethargic.

The child was initially treated at a local hospital before being transferred to Hurley Medical Center in Flint due to the severity of the condition. Medical staff later identified significant injuries, which led authorities to open a criminal investigation.

Following several months of investigation, arrests were made on May 1.

Severe Infant Injuries Prompt Child Abuse Investigation

Medical professionals reported that the infant sustained multiple serious injuries, including:

Subdural hemorrhage (bleeding on the brain)
Multiple broken ribs
Fractured shoulder blade
Broken forearm
Retinal hemorrhaging

According to investigators, the injuries are believed to be consistent with possible ongoing abuse. The child was later transferred to a specialized children’s hospital in Ann Arbor and remains under medical care.

Parents Arrested and Charged with First-Degree Child Abuse and Torture

Authorities executed a search warrant on May 1 in Davison Township, where one parent was taken into custody. The second parent was arrested separately at a military training site in Battle Creek.

Both individuals have been charged with:

First-degree child abuse
Torture

In addition, the father faces an additional charge of third-degree child abuse.

Each defendant is being held on a $200,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in court on May 8.

Note: The charges are allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.

What First-Degree Child Abuse and Torture Charges Mean Under Michigan Law

Under Michigan law, first-degree child abuse involves intentionally or knowingly causing serious physical or mental harm to a child.

A torture charge alleges that a person intentionally inflicted severe physical or mental pain and suffering over a period of time.

If convicted, these offenses carry significant penalties, including lengthy prison sentences.

Legal Implications of Serious Child Abuse Cases in Michigan

In cases involving serious injury to a child, criminal proceedings may be accompanied by separate civil actions in some situations. Civil claims, if pursued, may seek compensation for:

Medical expenses
Long-term care
Pain and suffering
Other related damages

Families dealing with serious injuries may want to review their options with a Michigan personal injury lawyer.

Cases involving institutional abuse, government involvement, or failures to protect vulnerable people may also raise Michigan civil rights concerns.

For more plain-language legal information, visit the firm’s Michigan legal resources section.

Readers can also review the firm’s broader Michigan statutes reference guide.

Anyone seeking help can contact the firm through its free case evaluation page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What charges are the Michigan parents facing?

Both parents are facing first-degree child abuse and torture charges. The father also faces an additional third-degree child abuse charge. The charges are allegations, and both defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

What does first-degree child abuse mean in Michigan?

First-degree child abuse generally involves allegations that a person knowingly or intentionally caused serious physical or mental harm to a child.

What does a torture charge mean in Michigan?

A torture charge alleges that a person intentionally caused severe physical or mental pain or suffering. In a child injury case, this can significantly increase the seriousness of the criminal prosecution.

Can a child abuse case also lead to a civil lawsuit?

Yes. In some cases, serious child abuse or neglect allegations may lead to separate civil claims seeking compensation for medical care, long-term needs, pain and suffering, and related damages.

What should families do after suspected child abuse or neglect?

Families should report suspected abuse to authorities immediately and seek medical care for the child. They may also wish to speak with a Michigan personal injury or civil rights attorney to understand whether civil legal options are available.

Sources

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

Michigan Parents Charged with Child Abuse and Torture After Infant Suffers Severe Injuries in Lapeer County