Detroit Father Charged After Toddler Found Abandoned in Impounded Vehicle

Orlander Murnell Linson Jr. faces child abuse charges after leaving 1-year-old in car that was impounded

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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A 35-year-old Detroit father has been charged with second-degree child abuse and child abuse-leaving a child in a vehicle resulting in physical harm after allegedly abandoning his 1-year-old child in a vehicle that was later impounded by police.

Why it matters

This case highlights the serious dangers of leaving young children unattended in vehicles, especially in harsh winter weather conditions. It also raises questions about the protocols and responsibilities of law enforcement when impounding vehicles that may contain vulnerable individuals.

The details

According to prosecutors, Orlander Murnell Linson Jr. allegedly abandoned the car containing his 1-year-old child on February 27 in front of a home in Harper Woods. Police were called to the scene, impounded the vehicle, and did not observe anyone inside before towing it away. The child was later discovered by Detroit police officers at the impound lot and taken to a hospital for treatment.

  • On February 28, a woman reported her child missing to the Detroit Police Department.
  • On March 2, Linson was arraigned on the charges and received a $100,000 cash/surety bond with a GPS tether.
  • Linson is due back in court on March 11 for a probable cause conference and on March 28 for a preliminary examination.

The players

Orlander Murnell Linson Jr.

A 35-year-old Detroit father who has been charged with second-degree child abuse and child abuse-leaving a child in a vehicle resulting in physical harm.

Kym Worthy

The Wayne County Prosecutor who stated that Linson's alleged actions are "truly disturbing."

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What they’re saying

“I don't know what would possess a person to abandon a helpless 13-month-old in a car in winter weather. The alleged actions of this defendant are truly disturbing.”

— Kym Worthy, Wayne County Prosecutor (cbsnews.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on March 11 whether to allow Linson to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the urgent need for better safeguards and protocols to protect vulnerable children who may be left unattended in vehicles, as well as the importance of thorough investigations by law enforcement when impounding cars to ensure no one is trapped inside.