Ann Arbor, December 29, 2025

Ann Arbor has been grappling with shocking crime incidents in 2025, including a tragic double homicide and a disturbing clergy sexual abuse case. These events highlight the community’s ongoing concerns regarding safety and justice. Local leaders and residents are calling for effective crime prevention strategies to strengthen public safety while fostering an environment conducive to business growth. This article delves into the details of each incident and emphasizes the importance of community vigilance.

Ann Arbor, Michigan: Notable Crime Incidents in 2025

A Year Marked by Tragedy and Calls for Change

Ann Arbor began 2025 under the shadow of significant crime incidents that have touched its community deeply. As the local business landscape grows with entrepreneurship and innovation, these troubling events have reminded residents of the urgency for safety and justice to thrive alongside economic growth. With a strong community and resilient entrepreneurs, the city faces challenges head-on, fostering a dialogue that balances public safety with support for local businesses.

This article will explore two particularly heinous crimes that shook the community: a tragic double homicide in Northfield Township and a high-profile clergy sexual abuse case involving a former Ann Arbor priest. Further incidents, though less publicized, highlight ongoing public safety concerns and the need for effective crime prevention measures.

Double Homicide in Northfield Township

On January 1, 2025, residents of Northfield Township were devastated by the news of a double homicide. Jennifer Bernard, 48, and her father, Stevie Ray Smith, 74, were shot in their home. The accused, Shuvonne Vinson, Keith Finley, and Gregory Callhan, faces serious charges of murder along with kidnapping Jennifer’s two young daughters, ages 4 and 9. Fortunately, the children were later found unharmed in nearby Ypsilanti Township. The violent nature of the incident attracted considerable attention, prompting discussions about the importance of community vigilance and enhanced safety measures.

Clergy Sexual Abuse Case Involving Former Priest Timothy Crowley

In another distressing case, former priest Timothy Crowley, who served at St. Thomas the Apostle Church, pleaded guilty to criminal sexual conduct against a minor. The incidents occurred between 1986 and 1990, impacting the lives of a 10-year-old altar boy. Crowley’s sentence included one year in jail, five years of probation, and registration as a sex offender. This case is part of a more extensive investigation into clergy abuse within the Diocese of Lansing, shedding light on systemic issues that require attention and reform.

Background on Clergy Abuse Cases in Michigan

Michigan has witnessed multiple clergy abuse cases recently, with the most notable being the conviction of pastor Joseph “Jack” Baker in 2022 for first-degree criminal sexual conduct involving a minor. Furthermore, a report released in 2024 by Attorney General Dana Nessel revealed numerous abuse cases within the Diocese of Kalamazoo, indicating a widespread problem that calls for societal and institutional change.

Other Notable Crime Incidents in 2025

In addition to the high-profile cases, 2025 in Ann Arbor saw a series of armed robberies targeting local businesses, contributing to a declining sense of safety among residents. A significant drug trafficking bust also took place, resulting in multiple arrests. While these incidents receive less coverage than the more sensational cases, they underscore the need for continuous dialogue within the community about crime prevention and public safety measures.

Conclusion

The year 2025 has brought to light serious crime incidents in Ann Arbor, urging residents and leaders alike to engage in critical conversations about community safety and justice. While local entrepreneurs and businesses strive to create a healthy economic environment, addressing these concerns with urgency could strengthen community ties and foster a more secure future.

FAQ

What happened in the double homicide case in Northfield Township?

On January 1, 2025, Jennifer Bernard, 48, and her father, Stevie Ray Smith, 74, were fatally shot in their Northfield Township home. The assailants, Shuvonne Vinson, Keith Finley, and Gregory Callhan, were charged with the murders and the kidnapping of Bernard’s two daughters, aged 4 and 9. The children were later found unharmed in Ypsilanti Township.

What was the outcome of the clergy abuse case involving Timothy Crowley?

In November 2023, Timothy Crowley, a former priest at St. Thomas the Apostle Church in Ann Arbor, pleaded guilty to two counts of second-degree criminal sexual conduct. The charges stemmed from incidents that occurred between 1986 and 1990, involving a 10-year-old altar boy. Crowley was sentenced to one year in jail, five years of probation, and required to register as a sex offender.

Have there been other clergy abuse cases in Michigan?

Yes, Michigan has faced several clergy abuse cases in recent years. In 2022, Joseph “Jack” Baker, a pastor in Waterford, was convicted of first-degree criminal sexual conduct involving a minor. Additionally, in 2024, a report by Attorney General Dana Nessel detailed multiple abuse cases within the Diocese of Kalamazoo, highlighting the systemic nature of the issue.

Were there other significant crime incidents in Ann Arbor in 2025?

Yes, beyond the double homicide and clergy abuse case, Ann Arbor experienced other significant crime events in 2025. These included a series of armed robberies targeting local businesses and a notable drug trafficking bust that led to multiple arrests. While these incidents did not receive as much media attention, they contributed to the ongoing discussions about public safety and crime prevention in the community.

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Author: STAFF HERE DETROITMI WRITER

DETROIT STAFF WRITER The DETROIT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDetroitMI.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Detroit, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Movement Electronic Music Festival, Detroit Grand Prix, and America's Thanksgiving Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Detroit Regional Chamber and Focus HOPE, plus leading businesses in automotive and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Henry Ford Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.