A 55-year-old Branch County man, Alex New, has been sentenced to a minimum of 58 years in prison for the sexual assault of a minor. According to a press release from the Michigan Attorney General's Office, New, who had initially fled to Florida, has been brought back to face justice as a result of a collaborative effort among local and federal authorities.
Following his extradition through the joint initiative dubbed Operation Survivor Justice, New was convicted on two counts of First-Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct and one count of Second-Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct. The sentence was handed down by Judge P. William O'Grady in the 15th Circuit Court, to be served consecutively. Alex New has not only to begin to serve a lengthy period behind bars but will also be placed under lifetime electronic monitoring upon release.
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel, bolstering the collaborative work done, expressed resolve in the efficiency of such partnerships. "Operation Survivor Justice continues to be a vital partnership, ensuring those who commit sexual assault face the consequences of their actions," she said in the same press release. She further highlighted the importance of the survivor's bravery in coming forward, which played a crucial role in securing the conviction and substantial sentence.
In a rare collaboration between local prosecutors, the Michigan Attorney General’s Office, and the U.S. Marshals Service, the operation has brought several fugitives to justice and sent a clear message that justice, though sometimes delayed, is inevitable.
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