Former Michigan Priest Sentenced for Sexual Abuse, Will Serve up to 40 Years

KRON
April 29, 2016

http://kron4.com/2016/04/29/former-michigan-priest-sentenced-for-sexual-abuse-will-serve-up-to-40-years/


Six of James Rapp’s victims came forward to talk about how the former Lumen Christi wrestling coach and priest changed their lives forever.

“I wish we were here under different circumstances today to put a person like him to sleep…I know to this day that I could have been a different person had this not happened,” said victim Andrew Russell.

“He knelt besides a bed I was in. He had a bed. Held my hand, said the Lord’s prayer and then climbed in bed with me and had his way with me,” said another victim John C. Wood.

The 75-year old Rapp pleaded no contest to three counts of first degree Criminal Sexual Conduct and three counts of second degree Criminal Sexual Conduct back in March.

This, on top of serving a sentence for his role in abusing children in Oklahoma in which he was scheduled to be released this summer. According to Assistant Attorney General Angela Povilaitis, the ripple effect of his choices was chilling.

Jackson County Judge Susan Beebe determined that Rapp will serve up to 40 years behind bars. Rapp would be 115 years old when the sentence ends.