LANSING (WWJ) A former Oakland County priest is facing additional sexual assault accusations after being charged in a similar case last year.
According to the Michigan Attorney General’s Office, 80-year-old Gary Berthiaume is being charged in new cases involving victims who were then between the ages of 13 and 15 years old at the time.
He faces two, 5-year felony counts of gross indecency in 46th District Court, as well as two counts of second-degree criminal sexual conduct in 47th District Court. Each of those counts would carry an additional 15-year felony.
Berthiaume was previously charged with one count of second-degree criminal sexual conduct for allegedly sexually assaulting a 14-year-old victim. If convicted in that case, Berthiaume could face a 15-year felony.
According to the Michigan Attorney General's office, the three cases stem from alleged abuse in the 1970s while Berthiaume was a priest at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Wyandotte and later Our Lady of Sorrows in Farmington.
“We remain indebted to the courageous survivors who share their stories and therefore allow our clergy abuse team to pursue criminal charges in court,” AG Dana Nessel said in a statement. “We must ensure justice is served against those who use their powerful positions to prey on others who seek guidance and trust.”
In the 47th District Court, where he was charged in the original case, Berthiaume received a $100,000 personal bond with no unsupervised contact with anyone under the age of 16. A probable cause hearing is set for July 7.
Along with Berthiaume, the Attorney General’s investigation has resulted in criminal charges being filed against 11 individuals with ties to the Catholic Church. Last week, the clergy abuse team secured its fourth conviction.
Anyone who was abused by clergy in Michigan, or who has information about abuse to call the tip line at 844-324-3374. Tips can also be submitted online at this link.
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