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 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.
The Open Meetings Act (OMA) took effect January 1, 1977. In enacting the OMA, the Legislature promoted a new era in governmental accountability and fostered openness in government to enhance responsible decision making.1 Nothing in the OMA prohibits a public body from adopting an ordinance, resolution, rule, or charter provision that requires a greater degree of openness relative to public body meetings than the standards provided for in the OMA. 2
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September 12, 2025
LANSING – Joseph Willbee, 50, of Torch Lake, was arraigned in the 54A District Court in Lansing before Magistrate Laura Millmore on September 9 on three counts of Filing a False or Fraudulent Income Tax Return, each a 5-year felony, announced Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel. It is alleged Willbee failed to file taxes on income from an illegal marijuana growing and distribution operation in Otsego County between 2019 and 2021.
A search warrant executed at Willbee’s residence and facilities in October 2021 reportedly uncovered more than 1,000 marijuana plants and over 50 pounds of processed marijuana. This case was referred to the Department of Attorney General by the Michigan State Police’s Marijuana and Tobacco Investigation Section.
“Large-scale illegal marijuana operations deprive our state of revenue that funds critical services,” Nessel said. “I appreciate the efforts of the Michigan State Police’s Marijuana and Tobacco Investigation Section. My office will continue to hold accountable those who attempt to skirt their tax obligations.”
Willbee will next appear before Judge Stacia Buchanan on September 18th.
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Please note: For all criminal proceedings, a criminal charge is merely an allegation. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. The Department does not provide booking photos.
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