Great Lakes Wire

Grand Traverse County Commissioner Brad Jewett has pleaded guilty to engaging the services of prostitution, a misdemeanor offense carrying a potential 93-day jail sentence. Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel announced the plea, which resulted in the dismissal of an additional charge related to using a computer to commit a crime.

The case emerged from an undercover operation in June at a hotel in Grand Traverse County. The task force involved multiple agencies, including the Grand Traverse County Sheriff's Office, Traverse City Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations, Genesee County Sheriff's Office, and the Genesee Human Oppression Strike Team (GHOST). Due to Jewett's status as an elected official, the Grand Traverse County Prosecutor's office referred the matter for review by the Attorney General’s office.

"As this conviction demonstrates, no one is above the law," stated Nessel. "I commend the joint law enforcement task force for conducting their operation with integrity. My department will continue to hold accountable those who engage in criminal activity, no matter their position."

Jewett holds the position of vice chairperson on the Grand Traverse County commission. Attorney General Nessel formally charged him in September following a request from local prosecutors due to his official capacity. A sentencing date has yet to be determined.