Gaylord Man Charged with Felony Child Abuse and Assault

Jason McGovern, 43, accused of physically assaulting a child in Antrim County

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Jason McGovern, a 43-year-old man from Gaylord, Michigan, was arrested on January 29, 2025, following a Michigan State Police investigation into allegations of child abuse. McGovern is accused of physically assaulting a child in Antrim County. The charges against him include one count of Child Abuse Second Degree and one count of Assault with Intent to do Great Bodily Harm Less than Murder.

Why it matters

Cases of child abuse are deeply concerning and have significant impacts on the victims, their families, and the broader community. This incident highlights the importance of thorough investigations and the need for accountability for those who commit such crimes.

The details

The investigation began in January 2025 through the Michigan State Police Gaylord Post. Troopers submitted their investigative findings to the Antrim County Prosecutor's Office, which authorized an arrest warrant for McGovern. He was taken into custody without incident and lodged at the Antrim County Jail.

  • McGovern was arrested on January 29, 2025.
  • He was arraigned on February 3, 2025.
  • McGovern is scheduled for a court examination on February 18, 2025 at 11 a.m.

The players

Jason McGovern

A 43-year-old man from Gaylord, Michigan, who was arrested and charged with felony child abuse and assault.

Michigan State Police Gaylord Post

The law enforcement agency that conducted the investigation into the allegations against McGovern.

Antrim County Prosecutor's Office

The office that authorized the arrest warrant for McGovern based on the investigation findings.

86th District Court in Antrim County

The court where the charges against McGovern were filed and where his arraignment and court examination will take place.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on February 18, 2025 whether or not to allow Jason McGovern out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of thorough investigations and the need for accountability for those who commit crimes against children. It also underscores the ongoing efforts by law enforcement and the justice system to protect vulnerable members of the community.