Great Lakes Wire

Yesterday, Alex New, a 55-year-old resident of Branch County, was convicted by a jury on two counts of First-Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct and one count of Second-Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct. Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel announced the conviction, which involves the sexual assault of a minor.

New was initially charged in 2016 by the Branch County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office but evaded capture until he was located in Florida. He was returned to Branch County in June 2024 through Operation Survivor Justice. This operation is a collaborative effort between the Michigan Department of Attorney General, local county prosecutors, and the U.S. Marshals Service aimed at apprehending fugitives with outstanding sexual assault warrants.

"After nearly a decade, justice has finally been served in this case, thanks to the extraordinary courage of the victim to come forward at such a young age and Operation Survivor Justice," said Nessel. "My department will continue to build on this partnership to locate, apprehend, and return sexual assault fugitives to Michigan so they can be held accountable."

Sentencing for New is scheduled before Judge P. William O'Grady in the 15th Circuit Court in Branch County on August 11.