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MOUNT MORRIS, Mich. (AP) — A 30-year-old Michigan man who says he got the idea to waterboard a 5-year-old from a movie has been arraigned on child abuse charges.
Michael A. Porter appeared in court Monday, and a judge set his bond at $400,000. Porter returns to court May 28.
It's unclear if he has a lawyer.
Authorities say Porter restrained his girlfriend's son with belts, leaned him back over a footstool and poured water down his underwear-covered face.
Mount Morris police Chief Keith Becker says Porter was punishing the 5-year-old for ripping his backpack and got the idea from watching a movie.
Becker says school officials saw changes in the boy's behavior and called police.
Authorities say Porter also prodded the woman's 12-year-old son with a knife. Both boys were removed from the home.
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