Michigan news reports that a Berrien Springs massage therapist and former pastor has pleaded guilty to two counts of fourth-degree sexual assault. The Berrien County sex crime charges stem from an incident where Johan Albert Abrahams of St Joseph allegedly inappropriately touched a woman’s breast and thigh. WSBT news reveals that Berrien County Trial Judge Scott Schofield has sentenced the man to 90 days in jail, 90 days tether, five years probation, as well as requiring Abrahams to pay restitution and fines and costs. He must also register as a Michigan sex offender.
If you are under investigation for any sex crime, consulting with a knowledgeable sex crimes defense lawyer in Michigan immediately is important to begin preparing your defense.
Criminal sexual conduct (CSC) in Michigan is a generic term referring to sex crimes such as rape, statutory rape, and child molestations. CSCs are divided into 4 categories, and a conviction of any level may significantly impact your freedom and your future. Michigan law divides CSCs into the following categories:
• 1st Degree CSC: Criminal sexual conduct first degree involves some sort of penetration of the alleged victim is sometimes referred to by a layperson as rape.
• 2nd Degree CSC: Criminal sexual conduct second degree involve touching of a sexual nature of an intimate body part without some form of penetration.
• 3rd Degree CSC: Criminal sexual conduct third degree is sometimes referred to by the lay person as statutory rape and involves some sort of penetration of the alleged victim.
• 4th Degree CSC: Criminal sexual conduct fourth degree involve touching of a sexual nature of an intimate body part without some form of penetration.
In addition to the 90-day jail sentence imposed, Abrahams’ terms of probation also bar him from entering onto the nearby Andrews University campus, giving anyone a massage and having any device – such as a computer, cell-phone or tablet – capable of connecting to the Internet. Thus, despite Abrahams’ guilty plea to the least serious criminal sexual conduct charge, he still faces significant penalties and restrictions that affect his freedom.
For more information about criminal sexual conduct or if you are under investigation for any sex crime in Michigan, contact the aggressive Michigan sex crime defense law firm, Grabel & Associates for a free, immediate consultation.