Ionia County, Michigan – A decades-spanning sexual abuse investigation has led to an arrest, prompting authorities to seek additional victims.
According to the Ionia County Sheriff’s Office, detectives began investigating allegations on Thursday, October 2, 2025, involving reported sexual abuse that allegedly occurred over the past 20 years and involved multiple victims. Investigators said the alleged incidents primarily involved minors at the time.
The suspect, Trent Wesley Creighton, was recently arrested and charged with Criminal Sexual Conduct, First Degree, and Aggravated Indecent Exposure. Creighton was arraigned on those charges, officials said. The case remains under investigation.
Authorities allege that Creighton had extensive involvement with local churches over the past two decades, including working with youth groups and attending multiple congregations in the area. Investigators believe the alleged abuse may have occurred during that time frame and are working to determine the full scope of potential victims.
The sheriff’s office emphasized that the allegations span a lengthy period, raising concerns that additional individuals may have been affected but have not yet come forward. Detectives are urging anyone who may have had inappropriate contact with Creighton — or who believes their child may have — to contact law enforcement.
Anyone with information related to the investigation is asked to contact Detective Chelsea Kasul at 616-527-8259. Tips can be shared directly with investigators, and officials say all information will be handled with sensitivity.
Court records will determine the outcome of the case. As with all criminal proceedings, the charges are allegations, and Creighton is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
The investigation may be of particular relevance to former youth group members, church attendees, and families connected to area congregations over the last 20 years.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input.
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