Man accused of abusing his 2-month-old sobs in court hearing

HARRISON TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WJBK) - A child abuse suspect cried in a Harrison Township court room Thursday and told the world he was sorry.

Through sobs, 27-year-old Matthew Virgin offered a startling apology as he was arraigned on one count of first degree child abuse.

"I'm sorry for what I did," Virgin said.

"Don't say anything about your case Mr. Virgin, wait until you speak to your attorney sir, okay," said the judge.

"Mr. Virgin this is a felony punishable with up to life in prison," the judge said. "This is as serious a charge gets in the state of Michigan."

The Macomb County Sheriff's Office said Tuesday afternoon a family member had taken Virgin's 2-month old baby girl to her doctor for a scheduled visit. But, after the visit that person brought her straight to St. John Hospital in Detroit.

"The baby is still being treated - didn't show any signs of sexual abuse," said Sgt. Renee Yax, Macomb County Sheriff's Office. "Just physical abuse at this time."

Police immediately searched Virgin's Harrison Township home and spoke with the baby's mother and family members. Child protective services were then contacted.

"Anytime a child is injured it’s serious," Yax said. "Because, small children especially a 2-month-old, can't speak for themselves."

Virgin was quickly arrested and police say, right now they are not investigating the baby's mother.

Virgin's family was too distraught to speak with FOX 2 Thursday as Matthew Virgin is given a $150,000 cash bond.

"As a condition of that bond you are to have no contact with any minor children," the judge ordered.

With Virgin due back in court Oct. 4, the judge gave him a piece of advice before he headed back to jail.

"Don't tell anyone why you're going there, ok?"