Grand Rapids, Michigan, December 16, 2025
The Michigan Attorney General’s report outlines allegations of sexual misconduct involving 51 priests in the Diocese of Grand Rapids. Covering incidents from 1950 to present, the detailed investigation revealed that while 14 priests were involved in incidents involving adults, no new criminal charges were filed. The diocese asserts that no accused priests have active assignments and emphasizes its commitment to transparency and victim support.
Grand Rapids, Michigan
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has released a report detailing allegations of sexual misconduct by 51 priests within the Diocese of Grand Rapids, spanning from 1950 to the present. The investigation, which began in 2018, did not result in any new criminal charges against the individuals named.
Details of the Report
The 336-page report compiles information from various sources, including victim interviews, police investigations, diocesan records, and a tip line operated by the Attorney General’s office. Of the 51 priests identified, 38 were ordained by the Diocese of Grand Rapids. Thirty-seven of the accused are known or presumed to be deceased, while the remaining 14 are not in active ministry within the diocese. Notably, 14 of the priests are alleged to have committed sexual misconduct involving adults, actions that, while immoral, do not violate Michigan law. The Attorney General has not filed criminal charges against any of these priests.
Context of the Investigation
This report is the fifth in a series of seven planned reports by the Michigan Department of Attorney General, following similar investigations into other dioceses, including Marquette, Gaylord, Kalamazoo, and Lansing. The ongoing investigation began in 2018, with the goal of uncovering and addressing allegations of sexual abuse and misconduct within Michigan’s Catholic dioceses. The next report, focusing on the Diocese of Saginaw, is expected in spring 2026, with the final report on the Archdiocese of Detroit to be released before the end of 2026.
Reactions and Responses
In response to the report, the Diocese of Grand Rapids stated that no priest subject to an allegation of sexual misconduct has an active assignment in the diocese. The diocese emphasized its commitment to transparency and support for victims, acknowledging the harm caused by such actions and expressing deep sorrow for those affected.
Background on the Diocese
The Diocese of Grand Rapids, established in 1882, has seen over 1,000 priests serve within its jurisdiction since 1950. The recent report highlights the ongoing efforts to address and acknowledge past abuses, aiming to provide a voice to those who have suffered and to ensure such incidents are not repeated.
Next Steps
The Michigan Department of Attorney General continues its comprehensive investigation into all seven dioceses in Michigan, with the goal of uncovering the full extent of sexual abuse and misconduct within the church and holding accountable those responsible. The department has previously filed charges in 11 cases, resulting in nine convictions, and remains committed to pursuing justice for victims.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the scope of the Michigan Attorney General’s report on the Diocese of Grand Rapids?
The report details allegations of sexual misconduct by 51 priests within the Diocese of Grand Rapids, spanning from 1950 to the present. It compiles information from victim interviews, police investigations, diocesan records, and a tip line operated by the Attorney General’s office.
Were any new criminal charges filed as a result of this investigation?
No, the investigation did not result in any new criminal charges against the individuals named in the report.
What is the Diocese of Grand Rapids’ response to the report?
The Diocese of Grand Rapids stated that no priest subject to an allegation of sexual misconduct has an active assignment in the diocese. The diocese emphasized its commitment to transparency and support for victims, acknowledging the harm caused by such actions and expressing deep sorrow for those affected.
What is the status of the Michigan Department of Attorney General’s investigation into other dioceses?
The Michigan Department of Attorney General continues its comprehensive investigation into all seven dioceses in Michigan, with the goal of uncovering the full extent of sexual abuse and misconduct within the church and holding accountable those responsible. The department has previously filed charges in 11 cases, resulting in nine convictions, and remains committed to pursuing justice for victims.
When are the next reports in the Michigan Department of Attorney General’s investigation expected?
The next report, focusing on the Diocese of Saginaw, is expected in spring 2026, with the final report on the Archdiocese of Detroit to be released before the end of 2026.
Key Features of the Report
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Priests Identified | 51 priests with allegations of sexual misconduct since 1950 |
| Scope of Allegations | Involvement of both diocesan and religious order priests |
| Current Status of Accused Priests | 37 are deceased; 14 are not in active ministry within the diocese |
| Criminal Charges | No new criminal charges filed; previous convictions include Shamaun Beas in 2005 |
| Diocese’s Response | Emphasis on transparency and support for victims; no active assignments for accused priests |
| Investigation Timeline | Part of a series of seven reports; next report on Diocese of Saginaw expected in spring 2026 |
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