Ex-Macomb Co. Boy Scout Leader Sentenced To Prison For Molesting Boys

MACOMB COUNTY, MI — A former Macomb County Boy Scout leader was sentenced to prison for molesting two boys about 20 years ago, according to Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel.

Mark Chapman, 51, of New York was sentenced to two sentences of 12-20 years and 10-15 years, concurrently in prison. He was the first person convicted in the ongoing Boy Scouts of America (BSA) investigation.

The sentence comes after Chapman plead guilty on Oct. 31 to one count of first-degree criminal sexual conduct for assaulting one boy at the time and one county of second-degree criminal sexual conduct for assaulting a second boy under his command.

"Regardless how much time has passed, or how difficult the circumstances of a case may be, I am committed to seeing justice delivered for survivors of sexual assault," Nessel said. "Today’s sentencing sends a clear message that those who prey upon children will be punished. As our review of allegations made against adults in the Boy Scouts of America continues, I encourage those with information to come forward and share their story with the Department of Attorney General."

Chapman began sexually abusing a boy in 2000 when the boy was 13 or 14, and continued the abuse until he was 17 years old and a senior in high school, officials said.

The abuse happened at the boy's father’s house, at Chapman’s house, and at the local church, officials said.

Chapman also sexually abused an 11-year-old boy, who was a family member, for years and often revolved around times that were designated as "special opportunities" for Chapman to spend time with the boy, officials said.

Chapman was involved in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and the Boy Scouts of America when the crimes were committed, officials said.

Officials continue to examine thousands of claims sent from BSA national for review. Currently, a completed review of 1,900 claims has resulted in roughly 89 cases being investigated for further action. The claim review process remains ongoing.

If you have information about the Boy Scouts of America, you can call the investigation tip line at 844-324-3374 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Tips can be left anonymously.