Macomb County Teen Faces Adult Charges In Sexual Assault At HS: Police

STERLING HEIGHTS, MI — A teen who prosecutors said sexually assaulted a fellow student at a Sterling Heights high school may be charged as an adult, according to the Macomb County Prosecutor's Office.

The 17-year-old was charged with third-degree criminal sexual conduct. The teen was placed in jail without bond. The teen's next court date is scheduled for Jan. 8, 2024.

If convicted, the teen faces up to 15 years in prison for the felony.

Prosecutors filed a motion Thursday to waive the case to the Macomb County Circuit Court where the teen can be tried as an adult.

"This is a serious crime and we will treat it as such. We will continue to pursue justice and seek accountability for the victim," Macomb County Prosecutor Peter Lucido said.

Investigators said the assault happened during school hours Tuesday, Dec. 5, near the Performing Arts Center at Henry Ford II High School in Sterling Heights.

Principal Lori Singleton said in a letter to parents and guardians that school officials immediately contacted law enforcement after learning of the incident.

In addition to cooperating with authorities, Singleton said school officials have opened their own investigation into the incident, which they believe was an isolated event.

Anyone with information about the assault should call the Sterling Heights Police Department's Investigations Bureau at (586) 446-2825.