The Michigan Department of Attorney General utilizes the services of Special Assistant Attorneys General from time to time when the unique circumstances of a particular case create the need for specialized services not currently available within the department.
The Michigan Attorney General has determined that a full and complete investigation of what happened within the Catholic Church is required. This investigation is and will continue to be independent, thorough, transparent, and prompt. My department and this investigation will find out who knew what, and when.
The Conviction Integrity Unit (the “CIU”) investigates claims of innocence to determine whether there is clear and convincing new evidence that the convicted defendant was not the person who committed the offense.
In Michigan, a victim is an individual who suffers direct or threatened physical, financial, or emotional harm as a result of the commission of a crime.
The Task Force launched in 2019 and consists of more than 55 different organizations in the public, private and nonprofit sectors - all working together to combat elder abuse.
The laws regarding expungement of criminal offenses in Michigan changed in major ways in April of 2021. This page is designed to help applicants navigate their way through the new laws, help them determine if they are eligible to have convictions expunged, to answer frequently asked questions about the new laws, and to provide links for resources and assistance.
To investigate and prosecute hate crimes by following up on every credible tip and offer departmental resources to assist local and federal law enforcement partners in this effort.
The Michigan Attorney General is leading the fight against this horrific crime by prosecuting the state's first-ever criminal cases under state law banning human trafficking in Michigan. Victims of human trafficking are in bondage through force, fraud or coercion, for the purpose of sex or labor exploitation.
Knowing how to guard your personal information is your first line of defense against identity theft.
Michigan Attorney General's robocall initiative is leading several efforts to protect Michigan residents from the billion plus robocalls made to them every year.
Michigan's Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), MCL 15.231 et seq, provides that requesters can receive copies or make inspections of most public records of public bodies upon written request.
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September 06, 2019
LANSING – Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel and Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) Director Orlene Hawks praised today’s move by the Michigan Board of Counseling to revoke the educationally limited counselor’s license of Lawrence Ventline, a former priest with the Archdiocese of Detroit accused of sexually assaulting a young boy. Ventline was also fined $5,000.
The Board’s action today follows LARA’s summary suspension of Ventline’s license in May after an administrative complaint was filed by the Attorney General’s Office with LARA for allegations of sexual assault.
Ventline failed to file a formal response to the complaint. Under the Public Health Code, when a defendant does not respond to a complaint, the board considers the allegations to be undisputed and true.
“Unfortunately, the statute of limitations bars us from prosecuting Mr. Ventline for any crimes we believe he may have committed,” said Nessel. “However, today’s action by the Michigan Board of Counselors ensures that he cannot use his counseling license to lure in and abuse vulnerable patients, including young children. We are grateful for our continued partnership with LARA to help ensure the safety and welfare of our residents.”
“LARA remains focused on holding our health professionals accountable and we’re pleased that the board decided to revoke the counselor’s license,” said LARA Director Orlene Hawks. “We will continue to work closely with Attorney General Nessel and her team to protect Michigan patients from licensees who violate the law.”
Nessel reminded Michigan residents today that if they have any information regarding alleged abuse involving Ventline or any clergy member to file a confidential complaint online or by calling 844-324-3374.
LARA encourages all concerned residents, patients, parents, and peers to file complaints against licensed health professionals who may allegedly be risking public health, safety or welfare. For more information on filing a complaint with the department, visit the Professional Licensing website or review the Citizen’s Guide to Filing a Complaint (PDF).
A copy of the administrative complaint filed against Ventline can be read here (PDF).
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