TRAVERSE CITY (WWJ) -- A public official in Northern Michigan is in trouble with the law, after a task force investigation allegedly found that he solicited sex through an online advertisement.
The Michigan Attorney General's Office announced Tuesday that Grand Traverse County Commissioner Brad Jewett, 55, of Traverse City has been charged with (PDF) with one count of Engaging Services of Prostitution, a 93-day misdemeanor, and one count of Using a Computer to Commit a Crime, a 1-year misdemeanor.
In June, AG Dana Nessel says a joint law enforcement task force involving the Grand Traverse County Sheriff's Office, Traverse City Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations, Genesee County Sheriff's Office, and the Genesee Human Oppression Strike Team (GHOST) conducted an undercover sting operation in a Grand Traverse County hotel, placing ads online using a website known for advertising sexual services.
After Jewett allegedly tried to hire a prostitute through this ad, the Grand Traverse County Prosecutor’s office referred the matter to the AG for review, as the investigation centered on a local elected official.
Michigan State Police and the Grand Traverse County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation, which concluded in August, Jewett was then arraigned on the charges 86th District Court.
“Sting operations conducted by law enforcement are crucial to enforcing our human trafficking laws,” said Nessel, in a statement. “I’m grateful these resources are available throughout the State and commend the work of the Sheriff’s Departments of Grand Traverse and Genesee Counties, the GHOST team, the Traverse City Police Department, the Michigan State Police, and Homeland Security Investigations.”
Because of Jewett's status as an elected county commissioner in Grand Traverse County, currently serving the commission as its vice chairperson, the Grand Traverse County Prosecutor requested the AG's office review the case and handle the prosecution.
“Public officials should be held to a higher standard, but when they stoop to committing crimes that harm their own communities, my department will seek full enforcement of the law,” Nessel continued. “We remain committed to holding accountable anyone who engages in criminal conduct, regardless of their position or status.”
Jewett's next court appearance is scheduled for September 26.