STURGIS, MI (WTVB) – Jared Mark Smith, the co-founder and former CEO of the Michigan-based Five Lakes Coffee chain, was arrested and is set to stand trial for alleged criminal sexual conduct involving a minor.
Details regarding the case include two counts of first-degree criminal sexual conduct and one count of second-degree criminal sexual conduct, all involving a minor under the age of 13.
The alleged victim is the daughter of Smith’s brother and co-founder. The alleged offenses took place in April 2015. Following the allegations in November 2024, Smith was put on indefinite leave and removed from his role at Five Lakes Coffee. His trial is scheduled to begin on Monday, February 10, 2026, in Calhoun County Circuit Court.
Jared Smith started Five Lakes Coffee with his brother, Paul Smith, in Sturgis in 2002.
After charges were filed, Paul Smith issued a statement on the company website, at the bottom of the “about” section, declaring his brother was no longer with the company.
The statement reads in part: “I’m heartbroken to share that my brother and Five Lakes co-founder, Jared, has been formally charged with criminal sexual conduct. And our oldest daughter is the alleged victim”.
Jared Smith is free on a $25,000 personal recognizance bond as he awaits his trial date.
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