WASHTENAW COUNTY, Mich. – A former Ann Arbor priest has been sentenced after pleading guilty to two counts of second-degree criminal sexual conduct. Timothy Crowley, 74, entered his plea in Washtenaw County Circuit Court on Aug. 23. He had previously served as a priest at St. Thomas Rectory in Ann Arbor, and was apprehended in Tempe, Arizona in 2019.

On Nov. 8, Crowley received a one-year jail term at the Washtenaw County Jail and five years of probation. Additionally, he must undergo sex offender treatment and register as a sex offender for the rest of his life. This decision comes as the Michigan attorney general’s office continues to investigate allegations of clergy abuse within the state’s seven Catholic dioceses, with the assistance of Michigan State Police and other law enforcement agencies.

Since 2018, criminal charges have been brought forth in 11 cases across Michigan, with nine resulting in convictions. Two additional defendants are awaiting extradition from India. Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel expressed pride in the work of her clergy abuse team, emphasizing the pursuit of justice for victims of clergy abuse.

As the investigation continues, those with information relevant to the clergy abuse cases are encouraged to contact the attorney general’s office. This sentence may not erase the pain inflicted by Crowley, but it signals the state’s commitment to addressing clergy abuse. The pursuit of justice is ongoing, and those affected are urged to come forward and share their stories.

In summary, Timothy Crowley has been sentenced to jail and probation after pleading guilty to criminal sexual conduct. The Michigan attorney general’s office is actively investigating clergy abuse allegations and continues to pursue justice for victims. All relevant information can be submitted to the clergy abuse investigation team through the attorney general’s website, hotline, or email.