LANSING – Today, Grand Traverse County Commissioner Brad Jewett, 55, of Traverse City, was arraigned before Magistrate Tammi Rogers in the 86th District Court in Traverse City for allegedly engaging services of prostitution, announced Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel. Jewett is charged (PDF) with one count of Engaging Services of Prostitution, a 93-day misdemeanor, and one count of Using a Computer to Commit a Crime, a 1-year misdemeanor. 

In June, a joint law enforcement task force involving the Grand Traverse County Sheriff's Office, Traverse City Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations, Genesee County Sheriff's Office, and the Genesee Human Oppression Strike Team (GHOST) conducted an undercover sting operation in a Grand Traverse County hotel, placing ads online using a website known for advertising sexual services. Jewett is accused of soliciting prostitution through this advertisement. The Grand Traverse County Prosecutor’s office referred this matter to the Department of Attorney General for review, as the investigation centered on a local elected official.  Michigan State Police and the Grand Traverse County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation, which concluded in August. 

“Sting operations conducted by law enforcement are crucial to enforcing our human trafficking laws,” said Nessel.  “I’m grateful these resources are available throughout the State and commend the work of the Sheriff’s Departments of Grand Traverse and Genesee Counties, the GHOST team, the Traverse City Police Department, the Michigan State Police, and Homeland Security Investigations.” 

Brad Jewett is an elected county commissioner in Grand Traverse County, and currently serves the commission as its vice chairperson. Due to his position as an elected official, the Grand Traverse County Prosecutor requested the Department of Attorney General review the case and handle the ensuing prosecution.   

“Public officials should be held to a higher standard, but when they stoop to committing crimes that harm their own communities, my department will seek full enforcement of the law,” Nessel continued.  “We remain committed to holding accountable anyone who engages in criminal conduct, regardless of their position or status.” 

Jewett will next appear in the 86th District Court on September 26, 2024, at 11:30 a.m.