SAGINAW (MI)
WJRT-TV, ABC-12 [Flint MI]
June 25, 2026
By Terry Camp
The Michigan Attorney General’s Office released a long-awaited report on sexual abuse in the Catholic Diocese of Saginaw, resulting in no additional criminal charges.
The investigation began in 2018 when search warrants were executed at Catholic dioceses across the state, including Saginaw. The 258-page report is part of a statewide review of all seven Catholic dioceses in Michigan.
Report: Alleged abuse at Diocese of Saginaw dating back decades
- Kevin Craft
Attorney General Dana Nessel said her office received 1,276 tips over about eight years, with 180 related to the Diocese of Saginaw. Of those, 115 came from the diocese itself.
“I especially want to thank the survivors of abuse who have willingly shared their stories, sometimes after decades of silent suffering,” Nessel said.
The report states there were 104 victims abused by 37 priests and one deacon since 1950. Thirty of the accused are known or presumed dead.
Bishop Robert Gruss became emotional during a news conference following the report’s release.
“This has been — and is — a tragic, tragic period in the life and history of the church,” Gruss said. “I believe it has allowed for greater accountability and transparency, which I think is essential in restoring the trust that has been broken resulting from the misconduct of a few.”
He said the eight who are living or presumed to be living are no longer in active ministry. Gruss said 680 priests have served in the diocese since 1950.
The bishop said the report provided no surprises.
“Nothing really surprised me because basically all the names that have surfaced in the report have been out there for a long period of time. They have been on our website for a long period of time,” Gruss said.
Gruss acknowledged the pain caused by the abuse.
“Every instance in which a minor had to suffer in this way is far too many,” Gruss said.
Gruss said programs are now in place to create safe environments for those who attend churches and schools in the diocese, thanks to survivors who spoke out.
“We’re committed to making every parish, every school, every place of ministry a place where one feels safe, respected and loved,” Gruss said.
Both Gruss and Nessel encourage anyone who feels they were abused to come forward. The bishop has an open offer to speak with any survivor.