LIVONIA (WWJ) -- A 33-year-old Livonia man who owned a gym in Farmington Hills is facing up to 60 years in prison, accused of sexually assaulting an 11-year-old girl.
Jeremiah Michael Bishop was arrested without incident on July 23 at his mother's home by the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office Fugitive Apprehension Team.
According to the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office, the investigation began on June 18 when the victim's grandfather reported allegations of sexual abuse involving his daughter's boyfriend.
Detectives then interviewed the victim's mother, who provided investigators with text messages allegedly sent by Bishop admitting to the abuse.
The child later completed a forensic interview at Care House, where she disclosed multiple incidents of abuse, the sheriff's office said.
Bishop was arraigned in 52-1 District Court on Friday on four counts of Criminal Sexual Conduct in the Second Degree (victim under 13). The charges are punishable by up 15 years in prison.
"Nothing is more important than protecting our children," Sheriff Mike Bouchard said in a statement. "The allegations that this 33-year-old man sexually assaulted an 11-year-old child are horrific. Anyone who preys on a child must be held fully accountable. We will do everything in our power to protect children and pursue justice for victims."
Bishop's bond was set at $850,000 cash/surety with a GPS tether if he's released, and his next court appearance was scheduled for Aug. 7.
According to a statement by Bishop's former business, Movement United Parkour & Acrobatics, Bishop is no longer associated with the gym.
In a note to members, the gym's new ownership stated:
"Our main goal is to continue amazing Parkour / Silks / Tumbling classes with the same awesome coaches in a challenging yet safe environment. Our community is extremely important to us, so we're going to do everything we can to ensure a smooth transition. We will continue to honor existing membership arrangements, as well as release some new membership opportunities in the near future. Please reach out with any questions or concerns."
