Judge Bans Electronic Media Coverage of Plymouth Township Teen's Testimony

During last week's preliminary examination of Robert Louis Messer, 37, a Northville man who faces charges of multiple sex crimes after disappearing with a Plymouth Township teenager, the prosecutor requested that the teen's testimony be closed to the public due to her age. 

Judge Michael Gerou, of 35th District Court, said in an official statement sent out Thursday afternoon that there will be no film or electronic media coverage in the courtroom during the teen's testimony. That includes no video, still camera, or audio recording. 

Gerou said the teen's testimony will not be completely restricted to the public. She is the only other witness expected to testify. 

"The Court has considered the First Amendment rights of the public and the media and has weighed those rights against the need to protect a minor complaining witness' rights and privacy," he wrote.

While the case is pending, the media is also not to take photos of the teen or disclose her name, address, or other personal information.

"The need to protect this minor witness from embarrassment and humiliation outweighs the public's rights of full access ..." Gerou wrote.

The teen's mother said in court last week that her daughter feels ashamed, is worried what everyone thinks of her and is seeking counseling.

Messer, who has known the family for about 10 years, faces one count of Criminal Sexual Conduct First Degree, three counts of Criminal Sexual Conduct Third Degree and one count of Accosting a Minor for Immoral Purposes. The preliminary examination will continue at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 19 at 35th District Court.