Former House Speaker Lee Chatfield under investigation for alleged sexual assault, attorney says

Former House Speaker Lee Chatfield (R-MI) is under investigation by the Michigan State Police over allegations of sexual assault, according to the attorney representing the complainant.

Attorney Jamie White says Chatfield sexually abused a girl from age 11 to age 15, while Chatfield worked at a school and church.

According to the Detroit Free Press, Shannon Banner, spokeswoman for the Michigan State Police, confirmed that they will be investigating Chatfield after the complaint was referred to the state by the Lansing Police Department. White noted more allegations against Chatfield, including misappropriation of public funds while in Legislature. 

White previously represented dozens of women sexually assaulted by ex-gymnastics trainer Larry Nassar in the lawsuit against Michigan State University.

He is also representing men who were sexually assaulted by former trainer Robert Anderson in a lawsuit against the University of Michigan. White says the allegations against Chatfield require “a significant look” by the police.

“We are confident that between Michigan State Police and our independent investigation he’s going to be held accountable. This young woman is extremely terrified of what’s coming forward for her as far as how the ex-speaker is going to respond. We’re wrapping our arms around her to make sure she has tools to deal with this,” White said.

Chatfield served two years as House speaker before his term came to an end (Detroit News).