You Can Be Charged With Child Abuse in Michigan—Even If You Didn’t Commit It
Most people know that abusing a child is illegal in Michigan. But what some don’t realize is that you can face criminal charges for child abuse even if you didn’t personally harm a child. The real issue is knowledge: If you know about child abuse and do nothing to stop it—including not reporting it—you could end up facing charges yourself.
And this doesn’t just apply to mandated reporters like teachers or doctors. Ordinary people—anyone—can be prosecuted for failing to report suspected child abuse in certain situations. Let’s look at a recent example from Michigan.
When Not Reporting Child Abuse Becomes a Crime
Recently, a case out of Michigan made headlines for this very reason. Jamie Siler, 26, was sentenced to prison—not because she committed abuse herself, but because her boyfriend, Brandon Michael Biggs, was sexually abusing a young girl, and Siler knew but didn’t report it.
Police say Biggs abused the eight-year-old for six months, even recording and sharing the assaults online. When the abuse was discovered, Biggs was charged with multiple felonies related to child sexual abuse and exploitation. He accepted a plea deal, but the charges were extremely serious.
What about Siler?
Although Siler didn’t participate in the abuse, police and prosecutors said she knew what was happening but was too afraid to report it. According to her, Biggs threatened her and her daughter with violence if she told anyone. Still, Michigan law does not allow fear as a full defense in these situations—prosecutors charged her with Attempted Second Degree Child Abuse for failing to act. She eventually entered a no-contest plea and was sentenced to probation, required drug testing and treatment, and sex offender treatment.
A Child Abuse Conviction Can Change Your Life Forever
Even if you never directly harmed a child, being convicted of child abuse can follow you for life. The stigma alone can damage your reputation, limit your employment opportunities, make it difficult to find housing, and, in some cases, place you on the sex offender registry. The social and legal consequences are severe.
Don’t Take Chances—Get Legal Help Right Away
If you or someone you care about is accused of child abuse—or even of knowing about abuse and failing to report it—the time to act is now. You need an experienced criminal defense attorney who understands Michigan law and can fight for your rights.
Call The Kronzek Firm at 866-766-5245. Our child abuse defense attorneys are available 24/7 to defend you and help you navigate this frightening process. Don’t wait and hope the problem goes away on its own. Your future and your reputation are at stake—let us fight for you.