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Michigan music, youth director charged with criminal sexual conduct

Zachary Radcliff


SALINE, Mich. (BP) – A Michigan church staff member was arraigned last week on charges of criminal sexual conduct as well as charges relating to child sexually abusive material.

Zachary Radcliff, 29, had served as music and youth director at Oakwood Church in Saline, Mich., before his arrest. According to a statement from the Michigan State Police, an investigation began Oct. 2, when law enforcement learned Radcliff had solicited sexually abusive material from a minor.

After obtaining a warrant and searching Radcliff’s office and residence, police identified multiple victims ages 12-17.

Police said the church has been “cooperative and transparent” during the investigation. Radcliff is the son of longtime Oakwood pastor Frank Radcliff.

“The information that we received was shocking,” the church said in a statement on its website. “We were told that Zachary had been soliciting inappropriate photos and possibly videos from teens. We have also heard other stories. This information has ripped our hearts apart. The safety and protection of the individuals in our church is what is paramount to us. We are devoted to doing what we can for the care of the victims of these crimes.”

The church has set up counseling for those affected by the crimes. It also urged those with more information to take that to law enforcement.

“Like you, our hearts are broken,” the statement said. “We have a desire to serve our Master in this community, with the understanding that the church family should be one of the safest places we can be involved in. Part of that trust has been broken. Our commitment is to be completely transparent and do what we can to help with this investigation.”


If you are/have been a victim of sexual abuse or suspect sexual abuse by a pastor, staff member or member of a Southern Baptist church or entity, please reach out for help at 202-864-5578 or [email protected]. All calls are confidential.