Dad Charged In Fire Deaths Of 2 Kids Left Home Alone
DETROIT (WWJ/AP) - The father of two young boys who died in a Detroit house fire has been charged with involuntary manslaughter and child abuse.
The Wayne County prosecutor's office said 37-year-old Kevin Washington left his sons alone in the home Friday. Police said the boys' mother was arrested the previous day for violating probation and also wasn't home.
Detroit District Court Magistrate Renee McDuffy set bond for Washington at $100,000 at an arraignment Tuesday.
"Children left home alone have been glorified and celebrated in movies," said Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy. "This case is a prime example of the real consequences of children left home by themselves."
Washington was arrested Friday on unrelated charges. Police said he has past warrants, including one for home invasion.
Firefighters discovered 4-year-old Damien Washington and 1-year-old Mekhi Williams in a bedroom Friday, as the home was engulfed in flames.
Involuntary manslaughter carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison.
A probable cause hearing is set for Dec. 19. As of Tuesday, Washington did not have a lawyer.
MORE: 2 Small Children Killed In Detroit House Fire
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