Lake Orion resident Stephen Emerson Elliott was charged with five counts of criminal sexual conduct in 52-3 District Court last Thursday.
The charges stem from an accusation by a 17-year-old female relative of Elliot.
Elliot was removed from his position as an associate pastor at the First Baptist Church of Lake Orion earlier this month. He had served as a pastor of the church’s Adult Ministries.
‘Obviously, this is a disturbing investigation,? said Lake Orion Police Chief Jerry Narsh. ‘But, for the victim’s sake, it demands a thorough investigation.?
Narsh said the victim recalled several occasions of abuse, dating back from last May through last month, at both a home and the church offices.
‘As a pastor, you are, by your profession, a person of trust,? Narsh said. ‘It’s a tragedy to both the victim and society when that trust fails.?
First Baptist Church Senior Pastor Juan Moreno said Elliot was fired in conjunction with his confession given at the end of January.
‘We are aware of the investigation and Steve Elliott is a longtime member here,? Moreno said, noting the church will continue to cooperate with police.
Elliott’s family have been members of the church for 10 years, which coincides with his time on staff, according to Moreno.
Elliott is married with four children and resides in Lake Orion.
Calls to his attorney, Daniel Bates, were not returned prior to press time.
Moreno said the church has spent the past month coping with the news, adding that they believe in the process and didn’t want to disturb an ongoing investigation.
‘We trust in God that the truth will come out and if a crime was committed we certainly feel it should be punished,? he noted.
Narsh said the police learned of the case from the Department of Human Services, who had been told of it by the teen’s therapist.
The charges against Elliott include one count of third-degree criminal sexual conduct, a 15-year felony, and four counts of fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct, a two-year misdemeanor.
Elliott was released on a $50,000 bond and a preliminary exam conference is slated for 8:30 a.m. on March 6 before 52-3 Judge Lisa Asadoorian.
‘This does not reflect on the First Baptist Church of Lake Orion or its congregation,? Narsh noted. ‘It’s a wonderful church and a valuable part of the community.?