Teen Mother Charged in Infant's Death at Seville Motel

The mother of a 2-month-old who died in a Royal Oak motel was arrested on charges of child abuse in connection with the death, Royal Oak police said.

Destiny Thomas, 18, of Royal Oak Township, has been charged with one count of child abuse second degree and one count of child abuse fourth degree in the death of her daughter, Gabrielle Taylor.

On Feb. 4, 2013, Royal Oak officers responded to a call at the Seville Motel, 28300 Woodward, on the report of a baby not breathing. The child was unresponsive when police arrived. An officer began CPR on the infant until Royal Oak Fire Department personnel arrived on scene, according to police. The baby was transported to William Beaumont Hospital where she was pronounced dead.

A death investigation conducted by the Royal Oak Police Department Criminal Investigations Division and the Oakland County Medical Examiners Office revealed the cause of death was a complication of bronchopneumonia and malnourishment, according to police.

The Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office issued a warrant for the arrest of Thomas on Sept. 27.

"We were able to located her and she was arrested without incident," said Lt. David Clemens.

Thomas was arraigned in the 44th District Court Thursday. Judge Terrence Brennan set bond at $50,000. The next hearing date is set for Oct. 11, 2013 at 9 a.m.