Grand Traverse County Commissioner Pleads Guilty in Prostitution Sting

Brad Jewett, Grand Traverse County Commissioner, admits guilt in prostitution case stemming from undercover sting operation.

County Commissioner Brad Jewett Pleads Guilty to Engaging Services of Prostitution

Brad Jewett, vice chairperson of the Grand Traverse County Commission, pled guilty on Tuesday to one count of Prostitution – Engaging Services, a misdemeanor with a maximum penalty of 93 days in jail. The plea agreement resulted in the dismissal of an additional charge of Using a Computer to Commit a Crime. The charges were brought following an undercover sting operation conducted in June at a hotel in Grand Traverse County.

The operation was led by a joint law enforcement task force that included 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). The Grand Traverse County Prosecutor’s Office referred the matter to the Michigan Department of Attorney General due to Jewett’s role as an elected official.

Law Enforcement Collaboration Leads to Charges

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel, who charged Jewett in September following a review of the investigation by Michigan State Police and the Grand Traverse County Sheriff’s Office, commended the collaborative law enforcement effort. “As this conviction demonstrates, no one is above the law,” said Nessel. “I commend the joint law enforcement task force for conducting their operation with integrity. My department will continue to hold accountable those who engage in criminal activity, no matter their position.”

The sting operation and subsequent investigation concluded in August. Jewett, 55, of Traverse City, serves as a key leader in the Grand Traverse County government. The charges have raised questions regarding his role in public office and the potential repercussions for the commission’s reputation.

Jewett’s Role as Vice Chair Raises Ethical Questions

Jewett’s position as vice chairperson of the Grand Traverse County Commission has brought heightened public scrutiny to his case. While Jewett has yet to be sentenced, the plea and subsequent dismissal of the secondary charge underline the complex balance between public service and personal accountability for elected officials.

Sentencing and Next Steps

A sentencing date for Jewett has not yet been set. The legal outcome may impact both his political career and his standing with voters in Grand Traverse County. The case has intensified conversations around accountability for public officials, particularly when trust is breached.

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