Michigan Priest Gets 60 Days In Jail For Bubble-Wrapping Teen Boy
A priest from Michigan was sentenced to serve 60 days in jail for bubble-wrapping a teen boy, which means false imprisonment.
In 2013, Reverend Brian Stanley was accused of enclosing a teenage boy in bubble wrap and tape in a janitor’s room.
The incident reportedly happened at St. Margaret Church in Allegan County, Michigan.
According to reports, the teen was left alone for an hour when his mouth and eyes were covered.
The office of the attorney general said Stanley, the priest, was supposed to offer counseling sessions to the boy.
Dana Nessel, the Attorney General, said, “Mr. Stanley took advantage of a vulnerable victim and today he is being held accountable.”
Michael Hills, the Defense Attorney, said the priest went into treatment after the incident happened.
In a statement that was released by Attorney Hills, he said, “After this incident in 2013, he was in treatment. After treatment, I think he realized perhaps he was projecting trauma that he had suffered in his life onto others.”
Stanley will only spend 2 months in jail.
According to the Attorney General’s office, Stanley will be placed on a public registry for 15 years as his conduct was sexually motivated.
The priest will also be placed on probation for 5 years.
The priest did not speak when he appeared inside the court.
Talking about his crimes, which are believed to be in the sexual nature, Hill said, “There is no evidence about it. I objected to Father Stanley being placed on the registry, although under the statute it’s required regardless of whether criminal sexual conduct is alleged.”