COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) – Kalamazoo based television station is WWMT-TV is reporting that the Michigan State Police recommended that Branch County Prosecutor Ralph Kimble be charged with Fourth Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct for alleged incidents involving co-workers at the Branch County Courthouse. They say the Attorney General has declined because a key witness is fearful of retaliation if she testifies.
The information on the State Police investigation was gathered after the station filed a request through the Michigan Freedom of Information Act.
According to the report, the State Police investigation was requested by Branch County’s Circuit, District, and probate judges, who received complaints and interviewed alleged victims, but have no authority to remove an elected official. That can only be done by voter recall, or by the Governor if the official is convicted.
Attorney General Bill Schuette is refusing to comment on what he says is an open investigation.
Kimble has denied accusations made in a sexual harassment lawsuit that was filed against him and Branch County in October by former county employee Evon Staley.
