Woman, who according to her own mother bears greater responsibiIity for her baby’s death after pointing out that one of the skuII fractures found on the 7-month-old appeared to be oIder, suggesting prior injury before the child died of a brain bIeed, is charged

Michigan – A Michigan coupIe were taken into custody after the death of the 7‑month-old chiId in their care. According to the Sheriff’s Office, the victim’s mother, 27-year-old EIizabeth, and her 34-year-old partner, Devon, are charged with one count each of second‑degree child abuse, third‑degree child abuse and fourth‑degree child abuse.

The investigation began when Michigan authorities responded on the evening of May 4 to the family’s residence. At the home, officers found the baby, later identified as Maverik, deceased.

Michigan authorities said that a subsequent medical examination revealed that the baby had suffered three skull fractures, three broken ribs and a brain bleed. Officials concluded that he died as a result of the brain bleed.

During the investigation, the child’s grandmother — who is also the mother of the victim’s mom— told investigators that she believed her daughter bore the greater responsibility for the baby’s death. She pointed out that one of the skull fractures found on the baby appeared to be older, suggesting prior injury that went unnoticed until the fatal event.

Despite the severity of the infant’s injuries, prosecutors decided not to file homicide or manslaughter charges against both defendants. According to the County Prosecuting Attorney, murder and manslaughter charges demand proof of intent regarding the outcome — namely that the defendant desired the child’s death — and the available evidence did not support such a conclusion.

Both defendants were arraigned last week on the child‑abuse charges. Their bonds were set at $25,000 (cash or surety) for the mother and $50,000 (cash or surety) for the woman’s partner. The two remain jailed at the county jail pending further court proceedings. Their preliminary exam is scheduled for Dec. 9.

Under Michigan law, the maximum penalty for second‑degree child abuse is 10 years in prison; third‑degree abuse carries up to two years, and fourth‑degree carries a maximum of one year.

At this point in the public record, investigators have not claimed that the parents provided a full explanation for how the infant sustained such severe injuries. The details of any statements they made to deputies have not been released. The child’s grandmother did express to law enforcement that she believed the mother was especially responsible, citing evidence of a previous injury — but prosecutors explained that evidence was insufficient to support homicide charges.