Regarding pitbulls:
I currently have one. She was found running the streets of Redford, MI at approximately one year old. Redford is right next to Detroit, and is sort of "Detroit Lite", if you know what I mean. I was single at the time I adopted her, so there were no kids at risk. She has turned out to be an absolute sweetheart, and I have now had her for just over four years.
Having said that, I am aware that caution is warranted with the breed in general, and would not have kept her if she had exhibited any concerning behavior.
On a final note, if you live in SE Michigan, finding rescued dogs that don't have pitbull blood in them can be a bit of a challenge.