Michael Gardner, a member of the Ector County Commissioners Court, has been accused of committing child abuse in Nebraska. According to the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) in Lincoln, Gardner and his pre-adolescent grandson were attending a wedding on September 30th, with Gardner handling officiating duties. However, during the event, an incident occurred that resulted in the injury of his grandson.
LCSO Chief Deputy Ben Houchin explained the incident in a Facebook Live video posted by the law enforcement agency on October 2nd. He stated, "When he decided to cock back the hammer of this revolver, it slipped and shot his grandson in the left shoulder causing an injury." Houchin added that the child required medical attention, but his injuries were non-life threatening.
Further details emerged regarding the nature of the firearm and the circumstances of the incident. Odessa CBS station KOSA News reported that the blank fired by Gardner consisted of glue and black powder, with the glue suspected to have injured the boy. Authorities seized the firearm, ammunition, and spent shell casing from the suspect.
Gardner surrendered to authorities a few days after the incident and was subsequently booked on a felony child abuse charge. Ector County Judge Dustin Fawcett acknowledged the situation in a statement obtained by KOSA. Fawcett mentioned that Gardner is scheduled to make a public statement on October 9th at 10 a.m. in the Ector County Commissioners' Courtroom in Odessa.
If Gardner is convicted, he will be required to vacate his office as per Fawcett's statement, as reported by the Odessa American.
This incident has raised concerns about child safety and the responsible handling of firearms. The investigation and legal proceedings will determine the outcome of the case and any potential consequences for Gardner.