Court scheduled for former SMC professor charged with criminal sexual conduct
The victim in a case of criminal sexual conduct will have to wait two more weeks to face her former professor.
57-year-old George Field is accused of forcing a student to have sex with him. He is charged with Criminal Sexual Misconduct.
Wednesday’s hearing was delayed. The prosecution was prepared to call witnesses, including the victim, for the scheduled preliminary exam. But Field did not have an attorney and the court decided he needed more time.
It was in a psychology course at Southwestern Michigan College that Field and the alleged victim met.
According to court documents, she asked him where she could get help and he pointed her to his practice at the Family Center.
The records alleged what started as counseling turned into a romantic relationship. Police reports say the victim was afraid to say no.
"It has been a very traumatic thing for her and at some point it became too much to bear. She did indicate to employees that she didn't want to see this happen to anyone else and that's why she finally came forward,” said President of Southwestern Michigan College, David Matthews.
Field now faces four counts of criminal sexual conduct and one count of practicing psychology without a license.
"We want to make sure this is done according to what our constitution requires, and we're ready to go on our next date,” said County Prosecutor, Victor Fitz
The court has now appointed Field a public defender and he still has the option of hiring his own attorney.
For now, the victim and the courts will have to wait, but the work keeps on going.
The prosecutor says there is still the potential for other victims in this case. He encourages anyone with information to contact the Cass County Sheriff's department.
Field will be back in court in two weeks.
