A 50-year-old Hadley Township man was found guilty last month of fourth degree criminal sexual conduct (force or coercion) and assault for actions taken against a neighbor at the woman’s retirement party.
Gerald Lloyd Hurst was convicted March 30 by a jury in Judge Nick Holowka’s courtroom in Lapeer County 40th Circuit Court on the two charges. He was found not guilty of two others? criminal sexual conduct third degree and indecent exposure.
Cailin Chrismer, assistant prosecuting attorney for Lapeer County, said on Sept. 10, 2005, Hurst was at a retirement party for the victim, now 59. Most of the people at the party had been drinking, including the victim and Hurst. A number of people at the party served as witnesses to the assault.
Chrismer said she is pleased with the jury’s decision.
‘It sends a message that sexually inappropriate behavior will not be tolerated and can’t be excused as crazy, drunken behavior.?
Hurst will be sentenced at 1:30 p.m., May 14, 255 Clay St., Lapeer.
Criminal sexual conduct- fourth degree is a misdemeanor punishable by two years in jail and/or a $500 fine, with mandatory HIV/STD testing and assault or assault and battery is a misdemeanor punishable by 93 days in jail and/or a $500 fine.
Chrismer anticipates Hurst will receive some jail time, probation and will have to register as a sex offender.