State Roundup

Groveland Twp.: Oakland Co. sheriff’s deputy struck, loses leg
GROVELAND TOWNSHIP, Mich. (AP) — An Oakland County Sheriff’s deputy who was returning home from his 28-year retirement party when he was struck by a motorist has had a portion of his leg amputated.

Authorities say Keith Palmer was returning home Friday night, when he stopped his northbound motorcycle on Dixie Highway and Grange Hall Road in Groveland Township.

Michigan State Police said a motorist heading north struck Palmer.

Troopers said alcohol was not involved, and the 22-year-old woman from Grand Blanc driving the vehicle likely fell asleep at the wheel. She suffered minor injuries.

Sheriff Michael Bouchard tells tell The Oakland Press “it’s very, very sad,” especially on a day that should have been a celebration of Palmer’s career.

Muskegon: Man charged with hitting pregnant woman with pan
MUSKEGON TOWNSHIP, Mich. (AP) — Authorities say a 19-year-old Muskegon Township man faces a 10-year felony after assaulting a pregnant woman with a cooking pan.

James Cowles pleaded not guilty Monday during his arraignment in Muskegon County district court. He was charged with assault with intent to do great bodily harm less than murder.

Police said on Friday Cowles struck the pregnant woman in the abdomen with a 1.5 quart pan after she attempted to deliver a personal protection order on behalf of his mother. The order prohibited Cowles from living at his mother’s home.

The woman told police she was five months pregnant and was treated at a hospital.
Cowles remains held on a $100,000 bond. Court officials did not immediately know whether he had a lawyer
An Oct. 22 preliminary exam is set.