A Michigan man from Flint, aged 44, pleaded not guilty to nine felony charges after his 2-year-old daughter shot herself in the head with his revolver. This incident marked the first prosecution under Michigan's new law mandating safe storage of firearms.
The man, identified as Tolbert, was arraigned on charges including first-degree child abuse and violation of the gun storage law. His daughter remains hospitalized in critical condition following the shooting on February 14, the day after the law came into effect.
Tolbert also faces charges of felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, lying to a peace officer, and felony firearm counts. He is currently held at Genesee County Jail on a bond totaling $250,000.
The new law was enacted on the one-year anniversary of a tragic school shooting at Michigan State University. It aims to prevent unauthorized access to firearms, particularly by children.
Prosecutors highlighted the importance of responsible gun ownership, citing a recent case where a parent was convicted of involuntary manslaughter due to improper gun storage after a school shooting incident. The accused's husband is set to face trial next month for the same charges.
Authorities discovered two unsecured and loaded guns in Tolbert's bedroom, one of which was used in the shooting. No gun locks or safes were found in the vicinity, raising concerns about firearm safety practices.
Tolbert's next court appearance is scheduled for a probable cause conference on February 29. He is expected to be assigned a public defender for his legal representation.
