Babysitter charged after Warren 2-year-old shot self with caretaker's unsecured handgun

WARREN, Mich. (FOX 2) - The 42-year-old babysitter who was caring for a 2-year-old boy from Warren before he got hold of a handgun and shot himself has been charged with child abuse.

April Green was arraigned in court Monday on charges of child abuse, firearm safe storage violation, and two counts of felony firearm. 

According to police, the child was in the care of a babysitter who allegedly left two handguns unsecured in her home while watching the child. Green, who works as a social worker and is a graduate from the University of Michigan, was given a $75,000 cash surety bond.

"Investigation has revealed that a Smith & Wesson 9mm handgun was unsafely and unsecurely stored under a pillow, on a bed, inside the residence while the children were present," said Warren police's public information officer, John Gajewski, during a press conference on Monday.

The child is currently in stable condition at a hospital and is expected to recover.

The babysitter is a licensed CPL holder. 

Police say Green was awake, lying on the bed, when the toddler grabbed the gun. 

"I’m sad and upset by this incident," said Warren Police Commissioner Charles Rushton during the conference. "Anytime that a child is injured it is a tragedy. What is upsetting about this incident is that it was so preventable."

Warren police and fire first received a call about a toddler shooting themselves around 6 p.m. on Saturday at the Edgemont residence. The child was taken to the hospital and was at last check responsive and alert.

"She made one slight act of neglect. Nothing intentional, nothing intentional judge," said Randall Upshaw, Geen's defense attorney said.

Green has no criminal history, police said. Both of her handguns were seized by law enforcement during the investigation.

Last year, the Michigan legislature passed a law making it a crime to not lock up one's guns if a child is in the residence. 

During the Monday conference, city officials urged people to lock up their weapons. The Warren Police Department has free gun locks available for pickup in the lobby — no questions asked.

"We have the ability to prevent tragedies like these from happening," said Warren Mayor Lori Stone. "As adults, it is our responsibility to keep kids safe."

If Green makes bond, she will have to wear a GPS tether and have no contact with children. She is scheduled to be back in court on Aug. 13.

April Green arraigned in court Monday.