Great Lakes Wire

Sandra Baxter, a 65-year-old resident of Caledonia, has entered a guilty plea for providing a false statement during the investigation into the Unlock Michigan campaign finance case. This development was announced by Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel. Baxter admitted to one count of knowingly and willfully providing a false or misleading statement to a peace officer regarding a material fact in a criminal investigation. The charge is classified as a misdemeanor and carries potential penalties of up to one year in prison and/or a fine of $2,500.

The investigation began when Robert LaBrant filed a complaint with the Michigan Department of State in May 2021. He alleged that there was a "dark money scheme" involving Michigan! My Michigan!, identified as a 501(c)(4), which was purportedly used to fund the Unlock Michigan ballot initiative, potentially violating the Michigan Campaign Finance Act. The complaint was referred to the Department of Attorney General on June 3, 2022.

Baxter, who worked as a fundraising consultant for Michigan! My Michigan!, confessed in court that she made false statements during an examination under oath by an investigator from the Department of Attorney General on March 10, 2023.

Attorney General Nessel emphasized the seriousness of Baxter's actions: “Knowingly providing false information during an investigation undermines the integrity of our legal system,” she stated. “This plea makes clear that those who attempt to deceive investigators will be held accountable. My office remains committed to uncovering the truth and prosecuting individuals who obstruct justice.”

Initially charged with perjury in February 2024, Baxter's plea hearing took place before Judge James Jamo at the 30th Circuit Court in Ingham County. Her sentencing is scheduled for August 13, 2025, at 9:30 a.m., also before Judge Jamo.