Oakland County Man Nearly Shakes Infant Son To Death: Sheriff

SPRINGFIELD TOWNSHIP, MI — An Oakland County man is facing charges after nearly killing his 2-month-old son by shaking him, according to the Oakland County Sheriff's Office.

Daniel Charles Gracer, 31, was charged with first-degree child abuse. He was placed in the Oakland County Jail with a $1 million bond. His next court date is scheduled for Feb. 18. If convicted, he faces up to life in prison.

The incident happened on Dec. 23 when officers were called to a home in the 7000 block of Meadow Lane in Springfield Township on the report of an unresponsive infant, according to police.

The infant was taken to a nearby hospital and then moved to a second hospital because of the seriousness of the head and brain trauma, according to police.

Officials said Gracer was alone with the infant.

A child abuse specialist at the hospital determined the injuries were "non-accidental," according to police.

Moreover, the specialist further concluded the brain injury was due to rapid acceleration and rapid deceleration, consistent with being shaken, according to police.

Officials said the trauma was nearly fatal and the child is likely to have survived.

Officials began investigating and arrested Gracer in connection with the incident.

"Children are such a blessing and gift, and it is hard for me to ever understand how someone can intentionally injure a child," Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard said. "We look forward to this individual being held fully accountable."