Teen girl’s accused killer scheduled for preliminary examination Feb. 16

The next court appearance is scheduled for a Pontiac felon accused of fatally shooting a teen girl several weeks ago.

At a hearing Thursday in 50th District Court, a preliminary examination was scheduled for Feb. 16, 2024 for K’Nique Lawrence, where Judge Jeremy Bowie will hear evidence and decide if there’s probable cause for the case to proceed.

Lawrence, 32, is charged with open murder, felon in possession of a firearm and two counts of possession of a firearm in the commission of a felony for the Oct. 28 homicide of Desiree Childs, 16. According to the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office, Desiree girl died after being shot in the chest and leg while walking with a friend near the intersection of South Johnson Avenue and Menominee Road in Pontiac. Her friend was not injured.

It’s believed the bullets were meant for someone else.

Lawrence was taken into custody without incident Nov. 3 at a local motel, the sheriff’s office said, after detectives received information that he might be staying there.

As stated in her obituary, Childs “was a strong, intelligent, and beautiful young woman” who had “a great sense of humor and developed a smile that lit up every room she entered.

“She had a passion for music, cooking, healing crystals, cosmetology, jewelry, and wigs,” and is being remembered as very loyal and loving.

Facing up to life in prison if convicted of the murder, Lawrence is in the Oakland County Jail with bond set at $5 million.

His prior criminal history includes convictions for armed robbery and receiving/ concealing stolen property.