State Police Arrest Former Church Choir Director in Sex Abuse Case
WWMT
The music director at a West Michigan church is now facing multiple sex charges. 32-year-old Nathan Lavoie, an employee with St. Therese’s parish in Wayland was charged late last week with four felonies, including criminal sexual conduct. Michigan State Police say Lavoie is accused of having a sexual relationship with a 15 year old between 2011 and 2013. State Police say they are concerned that there may be more victims out there, they’re hoping now that Lavoie has been charged, others will come forward. Lavoie bonded out of jail after his arraignment last Thursday and declined to speak with Newschannel 3 when we found him working at home in Middleville Monday. “It has been an ongoing investigation for several months,” said First Lt. Tom Draves, MSP post commander. Michigan State Police arrested Lavoie following allegations that surfaced in March. “If convicted of these charges he could face 20 years in prison and $100,000 in fines,” said Lt. Draves. Lavoie is now charged with two counts of second degree criminal sexual conduct as well as accosting children and child sexually abusive activity after the parish priest filed a report with police regarding a relationship with a 15 year old. “A concerned parent came forward and Father Johnson acted swiftly and he is now on administrative leave,” said Vicki Cessna with the Diocese of Kalamazoo. In the wake of the charges, Lavoie remains on administrative leave. The church tells Newschannel 3 that he may not work there much longer. “We take seriously the investment in our children and are deeply troubled when something like this happens,” said Cessna. Lavoie is due back in court on Thursday, a judge has ordered that he have no contact with the victim. Michigan State Police are asking anyone with information to contact the Wayland Post right away.
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