Published: 2009-04-03 10:54:51
Author: Barton Deiters, The Grand Rapids Press, January 14, 2009
A chiropractor accused of inappropriate sexual behavior toward his patients can continue to practice out of his house-turned-office on 36th Street SW -- but only after revealing to his patients that he is charged with fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct.
Gregory Alan Freeman, a 49-year-old Wayland resident, waived a probable cause hearing Wednesday on three counts of criminal sexual conduct against three female patients. The case will move on to Kent County Circuit Court.
But before the brief hearing wrapped up, Assistant Kent County Prosecutor Helen Brinkman asked Wyoming District Court Judge Pablo Cortes to forbid Freeman from continuing to see patients.
"We have other reports from other victims that have come through as a result of media reports," Brinkman said. "The concern is that he is continuing to perhaps see other patients."
Freeman's lawyer, Charles Rominger Jr., said Freeman is being investigated by the Michigan Department of Community Health, but he remains a licensed practitioner. Freeman's state registration confirms that his license remains in place, even though a "open formal complaint" is listed.
As a compromise, Cortes suggested limiting Freeman's practice, 1160 36th St. SW, to male patients. Rominger objected, saying that Freeman's female patients are aware of the charges but wish to continue treatment.