(STURGIS) - A 57 year old Sturgis man has been charged with multiple counts of criminal sexual conduct.
St. Joseph County Prosecutor Deborah Davis says the suspect was arrested Sunday on the charges related to alleged incidents spanning from 2016 to 2025. The charges involve allegations that the man sexually assaulted his adopted daughter beginning when she was just six years old.
According to investigators, the abuse continued until the summer of 2025, when the victim, now 15, disclosed the alleged assaults to a trusted adult. Michigan State Police were contacted and immediately launched an investigation. The child underwent a Sexual Assault Nurse Examination that same day.
Forensic evidence was obtained and tested, including male DNA obtained from the victim's body consistent with the assault allegations. After review of the results that were received recently, the case was submitted to the Prosecutor's Office with a request for criminal charges.
Davis reminds the public the accused is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. She says her office recognizes the sensitive nature of these charges and urges the public to avoid prejudging any individual involved.