Michigan State Representative Faces Sexual Assault Allegations

A Michigan state representative is facing potential felony charges of sexual assault and weapons offenses after allegedly chasing an exotic dancer with a firearm following a disagreement. The incident is under investigation, and no charges have been formally filed as of yet.

Lansing, Michigan - Republican state Representative Neil Friske, 62, was released from custody late Friday morning after an alleged incident involving sexual assault and brandishing a firearm. The incident occurred on Thursday around 2:45 a.m., when police responded to reports of possible shots fired.

Michigan State Representative Faces Sexual Assault Allegations

According to MIRS News, Friske allegedly "chased an adult dancer after a disagreement." The dancer reportedly works or worked at the Deja Vu Showgirls strip club, which is located near the condo where Friske was arrested.

Police have confirmed that a "possible sexual assault of an adult female" was reported at the scene. The victim's identity has not been released.

Michigan State Representative Faces Sexual Assault Allegations

Friske has denied any wrongdoing, and his attorney, Edward Zeineh, has stated that they will conduct a "very thorough investigation" to demonstrate their client's innocence.

Records obtained by the Detroit Free Press indicate that the Lansing Police Department has requested felony charges of sexual assault, assault, and a weapons-related offense against Friske. However, no formal charges have been filed, and it remains unclear whether these will be the specific charges he faces.

Michigan State Representative Faces Sexual Assault Allegations

The Ingham County prosecutor's office has requested that the investigation continue and is coordinating with law enforcement on the matter.

Rep. Friske, who is seeking re-election in the upcoming August primary, faces a challenge from Parker Fairbairn of Harbor Springs. Fairbairn has stated that he believes Friske is innocent until proven guilty but also highlighted Friske's conservative voting record, which includes opposition to legislation protecting spouses from marital rape, prohibiting child marriage, and outlawing the use of "deep fake" pornography.

Michigan State Representative Faces Sexual Assault Allegations

Friske is considered one of the more conservative members of the Michigan Legislature and is part of the House's Freedom Caucus, which advocates for "traditional conservative values and individual liberty."

After his release from custody, Friske's campaign released a statement expressing confidence in his innocence and alleging that the allegations are politically motivated due to the timing of his arrest.

The investigation into the incident is ongoing, and the Ingham County prosecutor's office has indicated that a decision on whether to file charges will be made after reviewing the findings.