Interlochen Abuse Report Fuels Push to Extend Michigan Statute of Limitations
A recent independent investigation into years of purported sexual misconduct at Michigan's Interlochen Center for the Arts has intensified demands for the state House to approve the 'Justice for Survivors' legislation. This package aims to prolong the period during which survivors of childhood sexual abuse can initiate civil lawsuits. The 97-page report, published this week, details accusations from approximately 70 former students against nearly 50 individuals, including two associated with Jeffrey Epstein. State Senator Kevin Hertel has called on the House to advance the bill, which the Senate passed in May 2025. In response, Interlochen President Trey Devey announced the establishment of a counseling support fund. The Michigan Attorney General's Office, under Dana Nessel, has offered its support. The investigation was conducted by Sanghavi Law Office, which was engaged in 2024.
Key facts
- Interlochen Center for the Arts released a 97-page independent investigation documenting allegations from about 70 former students and campers against nearly 50 adults in leadership roles.
- The abuse allegations date from the 1950s through the 2010s, with two accounts tied to Jeffrey Epstein.
- State Sen. Kevin Hertel is urging the Michigan House to pass the 'Justice for Survivors' package, which passed the Senate in May 2025.
- The package would extend the civil statute of limitations for criminal sexual conduct claims, create a one-year revival window, and eliminate the statute of limitations when a criminal conviction occurs.
- Current Michigan law allows survivors to file civil lawsuits until age 28 or three years after discovering the abuse.
- Attorney Bailor Bell says some survivors may still have legal options under Michigan's discovery rule.
- Interlochen President Trey Devey announced steps including a counseling support fund and an art installation honoring survivors.
- The Michigan Attorney General's Office has offered assistance to the Grand Traverse County Prosecutor's Office.
- Grand Traverse County Sheriff Michael Shea said his office will investigate if a victim files a complaint.
- The investigation was conducted by Sanghavi Law Office, hired in 2024.
Entities
Institutions
- Interlochen Center for the Arts
- Michigan Senate
- Michigan House
- Fierberg National Law Group
- Sanghavi Law Office
- Michigan Attorney General's Office
- Grand Traverse County Prosecutor's Office
- Grand Traverse County Sheriff's Office
- Detroit Free Press
Locations
- Michigan
- St. Clair Shores
- Grand Traverse County
- Interlochen