GRAND RAPIDS TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WOOD) — A Kent County teacher allegedly admitted to sexually abusing one of his teenage students in the late 1990s and early 2000s, court records show.
James Patrick Christians, 50, of Cannon Township, appeared in 63rd District Court near Grand Rapids via video Tuesday morning to be arraigned on two counts of first-degree criminal conduct.
Seeking a personal recognizance or low bond, Christians’ defense attorney said his client has cooperated with investigators so far and has no prior criminal history. He said his client has been married for nearly 30 years and that his children are grown. He said his client is not a flight risk.
Judge Jeffrey O’Hara disagreed. Citing concerns about the safety of children in the community and arguing that Christians was a flight risk because of the seriousness of the charges against him, O’Hara set bond at $1 million cash or surety. If he posts bond, he may not have contact with the victim and must wear an electronic tether.