Michigan man free on ankle monitor awaiting murder trial, now accused of double homicide

A 32-year-old Michigan man facing a murder charge from 2018 was released on home confinement and now police say the man has been charged in connection to a double homicide.

Orlando Whitfield, 32, faces murder, robbery and gun charges for the shooting death of 25-year-old Marissa Edmunds in January 2018, police said.

However, in May 2020, judge Carol Kuhnke released Whitfield on a tether monitor because of his right to a speedy trial, despite his history of sexual assault and running from police, authorities said and local media reported.

According to Washtenaw County prosecutors, they have described Whitfield as a “danger to the public,” according to WXYZ.

On June 21, 2021, police said a Detroit couple engaged to be married were found bound and gagged in their own home before being shot to death while their 6-month-old baby was nearby.

Authorities said Whitfield has been arrested again in connection to the double killing on June 21.

WXYZ reported Whitfield cut off the tether that was placed on him for monitoring purposes. Whitfield’s attorney told WXYZ his client maintains his innocence in the prior case.

Detroit police said their investigation on the double homicide continues.