A couple from Michigan is currently in custody following the death of their infant son earlier this year, as reported by local law enforcement. Elizabeth LynnLanor Hogan, 27, and Devin Austin Brown-Fowler, 34, are each facing charges of second, third, and fourth-degree child abuse, as per the Oceana County Sheriff’s Office.
The incident in question dates back several months. On the evening of May 4, authorities arrived at the couple’s home on South 192nd Avenue in Greenwood Township, a small community approximately 60 miles northwest of Grand Rapids. Upon arrival, sheriff’s deputies discovered the lifeless body of 7-month-old Maverick Lyle Bouck. At the time, information surrounding the circumstances of the baby’s death was limited.
Oceana County Sheriff Craig Mast initially commented on the situation, stating, “It’s still very early. It’s a tragedy – our thoughts are with the family while we’re trying to investigate the situation.” Now, two family members are facing serious charges, and more information has been revealed about the tragic circumstances leading to the infant’s premature death.
The child’s grandmother, who is also the mother of the female defendant, told the County Press, “He had three skull fractures, three broken ribs and a brain bleed — he passed from the brain bleed.” She further implicated her daughter, suggesting that she bore more responsibility than the boyfriend, due to one of the skull fractures being an “older fracture.”
The obituary for the young boy paints a picture of a happy, healthy child who loved to eat, adored his sisters, and enjoyed car rides and being pulled in his red wagon. Despite his short life, he had experienced a lot, including a car show just a week after his birth.
Despite the severity of the charges, the defendants are not currently facing homicide charges. Oceana County Prosecuting Attorney Joseph Bizon clarified this, stating, “Murder and manslaughter charges include an element of intent related to desired outcome. The evidence does not support such a conclusion.”
On November 24, Hogan and Brown-Fowler were arraigned on the charges they face. Both are currently detained in the Oceana County Jail, with Hogan’s bond set at $25,000 and Brown-Fowler’s at $50,000. They are scheduled to appear in court for preliminary exams on December 9.