Independent Report on Sexual Abuse at Prestigious Academy

The Academy of Fine Arts in Northern Michigan has disclosed an independent report detailing numerous incidents of abuse occurring over several decades. According to the findings, there have been 70 reported instances of sexual acts against students perpetrated by 47 different individuals.

This troubling 100-page report from the Interlochen Center for the Arts identifies Jeffrey Epstein, who was a donor to the center and later convicted of sexual offenses, as one of the abusers. It’s unsettling to note that some incidents involved adults who had been granted access to students and campers.

The report’s conclusions are derived from interviews with 180 alumni who recounted various instances of abuse, both on and off campus. Most alleged incidents reportedly occurred before the year 2000, and about a third of the alleged abusers have since passed away.

Two alumni specifically mentioned having inappropriate interactions with Epstein, who supported the center financially from 1990 until 2003 and was once a student there himself.

The Interlochen Center commissioned this investigation two years ago. Interestingly, only five of the accused names have been disclosed, and all are either deceased or have been previously accused of abuse. The center has submitted all names to the Grand Traverse County Prosecutor’s Office for further scrutiny.

In response to the report, Trey Devey, the director of the center, expressed his sorrow in a statement. He stated, “The abuses described in the report are heartbreaking and contrary to everything Interlochen stands for. We are grateful to everyone who shared their experiences.” He emphasized that the center is committed to safeguarding students.

Similarly, Board Chairman Barrett Rollins echoed these sentiments, asserting that student safety is paramount. He acknowledged the inadequacy of past measures and expressed a desire to honor those who bravely came forward, indicating a commitment to creating a safer environment for everyone in the Interlochen community.

As a noteworthy point, the facility Epstein donated to the center was demolished earlier this June.