Great Lakes Wire

LANSING – John Hendrickson, 59, of Bellaire, pled no contest today to four counts of First-Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct (CSC) in the 37th Circuit Court in Calhoun County. The charges stem from repeated sexual assaults on a minor relative over several years. Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel announced the plea agreement, under which Hendrickson is expected to serve 17-40 years in prison. Following his incarceration, he will be subject to lifetime electronic monitoring and sex offender registration.

"Sexual assault is a heinous crime that leaves lasting scars," Nessel stated. "I’m grateful we were able to secure justice for the victim in this case without prolonging their suffering with a trial. The victim’s courage in coming forward after years of abuse is truly inspiring. I want to assure all victims of sexual assault that my Department is committed to supporting survivors and ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable, no matter how many years have passed."

Hendrickson was initially charged in January with eight counts of First-Degree CSC. He pled no contest today to four counts involving assaults at his Leroy Township home in Calhoun County. As part of the plea agreement, additional charges—three counts of First-Degree CSC in Allegan County and another count in Calhoun—have been dismissed.

Sentencing by 37th Circuit Court Judge John A. Hallacy is scheduled for November 4 at 1:30 p.m.

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