FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 10, 2026
BAD AXE, MICHIGAN – Huron County Prosecutor Timothy J. Rutkowski announced that a Huron County jury found Mark Rolfe guilty of 25 counts of Criminal Sexual Conduct following a jury trial in Huron County Circuit Court.
Rolfe, the former owner of the Bad Axe Movie Theater and the local bowling alley, was convicted of 15 counts of Criminal Sexual Conduct in the First Degree involving one victim and 10 counts of Criminal Sexual Conduct in the Fourth Degree involving two additional victims, five counts for each woman.
Investigation and Trial Details
The charges arose from sexual conduct involving three young women who had been employed by Rolfe at his businesses. The evidence presented at trial spanned more than 20 years and included testimony from the three victims, numerous former employees, and law enforcement officers.
The jury also heard testimony from an expert in child sexual abuse, who explained the process of grooming, including how an individual may use trust, attention, and manipulation to break down boundaries and facilitate sexual abuse. The expert also addressed issues involving delayed disclosure and the behavior of victims following sexual abuse.
Following the presentation of evidence, the jury deliberated for approximately 90 minutes before returning guilty verdicts on all 25 counts.
The case was prosecuted by Huron County Chief Assistant Prosecuting Attorney David J. Wallace.
Recognizing the Courage of the Victims
“This case required tremendous courage from the women who came forward and shared their experiences,” said Prosecutor Rutkowski. “Speaking publicly about sexual abuse is never easy, particularly when it involves someone who occupied a position of authority and trust. These women demonstrated remarkable strength in coming forward, reporting what happened, and testifying before a jury. Their willingness to speak up was essential to bringing this case to justice.”
Rutkowski also recognized the extensive investigative work performed by the Bad Axe Police Department.
“I also want to commend the Bad Axe Police Department for its outstanding work throughout this investigation,” Rutkowski said. “Cases involving allegations spanning many years present significant challenges. Detective Sergeant Derek Joy devoted considerable time and effort to interviewing witnesses, gathering evidence, and conducting a thorough investigation. His professionalism and dedication was instrumental in bringing this case before a jury.”
Rutkowski also acknowledged the work of Chief Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Wallace in preparing and presenting the case at trial.
Rolfe is scheduled to be sentenced on January 11, 2027, at 9:00 a.m., before Huron County Circuit Court Judge Gerald M. Prill.
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