MACOMB COUNTY (WWJ) -- A Metro Detroit man is the first in Michigan to be charged in a nationwide investigation into the Boy Scouts of America for allegedly sexually assaulting two young boys.
After receiving a tip from a state sexual abuse hotline, Michigan State Police troopers arrested 51-year-old Mark Chapman, a former Scout Master with a Macomb County Boy Scout troop.
Michigan's Attorney General Dana Nessel announced the sexual abuse charges Wednesday against Chapman. If convicted, Chapman could face up to life in prison.
MSP Lt. Mike Shaw said the alleged incidents took place 20 years ago, when the two victims were 11 and 13 years old.
Assistant Prosecutor Danielle Russe Bennets, who will try the case, said sexual assault cases are tough -- and this one is very tough.
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"The older cases are tougher because you're relying on your victim's word," said Bennets.
She mentioned that the MSP had to micro-corroborate parts of the victims' stories, going back years, so the case can be successful.
And this is hard for the victims as well, added Shaw.
"They are the key component to all this, and it is hard to come up there and admit that you were victimized at any time of your life -- let alone as a child -- but we can't do it without them," Shaw said.
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Shaw told WWJ's Charlie Langton that if you or anyone you know is being sexually abused to call the state police or walk into one of their posts. People can also go to their local police department or use a tip line to report sexual assault.
If you or a loved one has experienced sexual assault, you can reach out to Michigan's Sexual Assault Hotline that has trained advocates available to listen without judgment and offer support 24/7 at 855-864-2374.
Report suspicious activity to MSP at 855-642-4847.
Report the sexual exploitation of children online at 1-877-642-9237.
