October 3, 2006

The Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) has summarily suspended the license to practice as a licensed bachelor's social worker of Artiss Reginald Williams, L.B.S.W., based on his felony convictions in the 17th Judicial Circuit Court, Grand Rapids.

On February 6, 2006, Williams was convicted of Attempted Sexual Intercourse Under Pretext of Medical Treatment, a felony. The conviction was the result of Williams engaging in sexual relations with female clients while he was employed as a substance abuse and relationship counselor. As a result, Williams was sentenced to jail for six months, placed on probation, with terms, for 60 months, and ordered to pay costs and fees totaling $2,220.

On or about March 14, 2006, Williams was convicted of Sex Offender-Failure to Register, Second Offense, a felony. The conviction was based on Williams’ failure to register and maintain a current address with the Michigan Sex Offender Registry for his 1989 felony rape conviction in Cook County, Illinois.

On September 19, 2006, Williams was charged with two felony counts of First Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct. The charges were based on allegations that Williams sexually assaulted two females. The criminal matter remains pending.

On September 25, 2006, MDCH issued an order summarily suspending Williams' license pursuant to the Public Health Code, which provides for the mandatory summary suspension of a health professional’s license upon the conviction of a felony. An administrative hearing will be scheduled to address the status of Williams’ license to practice as a licensed bachelor’s social worker.

For more information on disciplinary actions taken by the health professional licensing boards within MDCH, please go to http://www.michigan.gov/mdch, and click on Health Systems and Licensing.