ALLEGAN, Mich. (AP/FOX 17) — A Michigan priest accused of wrapping a teenager in bubble wrap has been sentenced to 60 days in jail.
Brian Stanley had pleaded guilty to attempted false imprisonment. Stanley was charged in August amid Attorney General Dana Nessel's investigation of clergy abuse.
“Mr. Stanley took advantage of a vulnerable victim and today he is being held accountable,” Nessel said in a release Monday. “We continue to review information seized from all seven Michigan dioceses in 2018, and we will thoroughly evaluate accusations and complaints brought forth by victims. For too long, criminal behavior by members of the clergy has gone unnoticed, and that must stop.”
The Diocese of Kalamazoo also released a statement:
“The Diocese of Kalamazoo continues to pray for all survivor-victims as well as all those impacted by this situation, including members of our Catholic faithful whose faith and trust may be shaken. We remain steadfast in our commitment to promote greater protection and safeguards of all people, particularly for children and vulnerable adults. Anyone with information related to misconduct should call the reporting number set up by the Attorney General’s office at: 844.324.3374. For any victim of childhood abuse or neglect seeking healing, comfort and support, we invite them to learn more about the Diocesan Trauma Recovery Program at 269.459.2121; or www.TraumaRecoveryAssociates.com."
Stanley was accused of wrapping a boy in bubble wrap and tape in 2013 in a janitor’s room at a church in Allegan County. Police documents say the boy's eyes and mouth were covered with masking tape while he was left alone for an hour.
Prosecutors say it was a sexually motivated crime, although Stanley's attorney denies it. Michael Hills says the priest regrets what happened and sought treatment.
