Today in Lansing, Roy Metcalf, a 22-year-old resident of Newberry, was arraigned in the 92nd District Court on charges related to the alleged abuse of a five-week-old infant. Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel announced that Metcalf faces two counts of First-Degree Child Abuse, which is an offense that could lead to a life sentence.
The case began in June 2024 when Michigan Children’s Protective Services received a report from Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital about suspected abuse. The infant had initially been taken by her parents, including Metcalf, to Helen Newberry Joy Hospital in Luce County. She was then transferred to Munson Medical Center in Grand Traverse County and later to Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital in Kent County for further assessment. Medical evaluations revealed injuries such as a fractured femur and subdural hemorrhaging, leading to the charges against Metcalf—one count for each injury.
Attorney General Nessel expressed concern over the case: “Cases of child abuse are deeply disturbing and heartbreaking, especially when they involve a child as young as five weeks old,” she said. “My office remains committed to prosecuting those who would harm our most innocent and vulnerable to the fullest extent of the law.”
Metcalf has been released on a personal bond and is scheduled for his next court appearance on May 15, 2025.
It is important to note that criminal charges are allegations at this stage. The defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty. The Department does not release booking photos.