WEST BLOOMFIELD (WWJ) -- An Oakland County woman is facing a criminal charge after authorities say she left a gun in her young child's backpack.
Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald announced Wednesday that 34-year-old Kelly Reid of West Bloomfield has been charged with reckless use of a firearm, after she allegedly put a gun in her 3-year-old's child's backpack, which the child then had at daycare.
On May 14, it's alleged that Reid dropped the toddler off a Royal Oak childcare center and gave staff a backpack that was supposed to have the child’s snack inside it.
When a childcare worker opened the backpack, they found the loaded handgun.
Investigators said Reid admitted that she put the gun in the child's backpack in order to carry it to and from her car, but forgot to take it out before dropping off her child.
Reckless use of a firearm is a misdemeanor charge.
"I’m grateful this is a story about a misdemeanor charge instead of a tragedy,” said McDonald, in a statement. “A loaded gun needs to be secured. Failing to do so around small children is absolutely reckless. The employee who found the gun should be commended for quickly securing it and contacting police.”
If Reid is convicted, she could face up to 90 days and/or a $500 fine. The court may also suspend hunting privileges for up to three years.