Man Charged with Kidnapping and Sexual Assault in Northville

Northville – A 22-year-old man, Charles Laurence Willis, has been charged with multiple serious offenses, including kidnapping and sexual assault of a 14-year-old girl. This case has escalated to involve substantial bail conditions totaling $1.25 million across various charges across two counties.

Law enforcement authorities in Northville have arrested Willis following accusations that he held the victim captive in his home for over 24 hours before she managed to escape. The incident under investigation took place from April 25, culminating in his arrest on April 27.

The victim was reported to have been lured to Willis’ home through a Snapchat exchange, whereby Willis arranged for her transport via Uber from Barry County. After receiving a report of the minor walking alone, police conducted a search warrant at Willis’ residence, where he was arrested. Upon arrest, he was described as cooperative.

Willis faces nine felony charges including kidnapping, enticing a female under 16 for immoral purposes, child sexually abusive activity, and six counts of first-degree criminal sexual conduct. Following his arraignment, his bond was set at $1 million.

In addition to these new allegations, Willis has a prior criminal record involving sexual conduct with minors. In early 2023, he falsely identified himself as a 16-year-old while engaging in a relationship with a 15-year-old girl. Upon discovery of his actual age of 21, he faced two counts of third-degree criminal sexual conduct with a person under 15. Initially, his bond was set at $5,000 for those charges, which later increased to $250,000 following the recent accusations.

Currently, Willis remains in custody with Wayne County authorities as the judicial process unfolds. His next court date for the Wayne County case is set for May 9, while a pre-trial conference for the Macomb County case is scheduled for May 22. A probable cause conference for the Wayne County case will also take place on May 9, with a preliminary examination set for May 16.

Authorities believe there may be additional victims connected to Willis, prompting them to encourage anyone who suspects that they or their children may have interacted with him to reach out to either the Northville Township Police Department or the Roseville Police Department.

In light of these recent events, Northville Township Police have issued a warning to parents, highlighting the potential dangers that social media can pose to minors. Officials advise parents to remain vigilant and monitor their children’s interactions online to prevent victimization.

If you are concerned about possible connections to the accused or if you have any information regarding this case, contacting local law enforcement agencies is strongly encouraged.