MI Lawmaker Accused Of Threatening Texts Won't Be Charged: Report

Detroit MI

26 October, 2021

1:35 PM

Description

DETROIT, MI — Prosecutors announced they won't charge a metro Detroit lawmaker accused of sending threatening text messages to another lawmaker following their breakup. Ingham County prosecutors confirmed the news Tuesday to Detroit Free Press. "We are unable to prove the case beyond a reasonable doubt," Sarah Pulda, a lead prosecutor of the Sexual Assault & Domestic Violence and Crimes Against Children division, told the newspaper. Several news outlets reported that the case will remain closed unless additional information or evidence is submitted. Michigan State Police began investigating a complaint against Republican Rep. Steve Marino, 31, of Harrison Township in September after Birmingham Democratic Rep. Mari Manoogian, 29, told House leadership that he'd sent her threatening texts, WJRT-TV reported. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rep. Steve Marino (@repstevemarino) She obtained a personal protection order against Marino shortly after reporting the incident to state police, FOX 2 reported. Marino has denied the accusations and has previously stated that her claims amount to "character assassination." His attorney, Mike Rataj, thanked prosecutors for "making the right decision," according to Detroit Free Press. Meanwhile, Manoogian's legal team has not commented publicly on Ingham County prosecutors' decision to not move forward with the case. SEE ALSO: MSP Investigating State Rep. After Complaint: ReportHouse Candidate: Secret Recordings Taken Out of Context: Video