A two-year independent investigation into Interlochen Center for the Arts in Michigan has uncovered widespread sexual abuse spanning seven decades.
The probe identified 47 adults who engaged in misconduct against approximately 70 former students from the 1950s through the 2010s.
The 97-page report, released on July 28, 2026, by the Sanghavi Law Office, compiled 180 interviews detailing incidents ranging from grooming to sexual intercourse.
Most reported incidents occurred before 2000, with claims declining sharply over the last 25 years.
Of the 47 accused individuals, 17 are now deceased, and none remain employed by the institution.
Interlochen officials have turned over the complete list to the Grand Traverse County Prosecuting Attorney's Office and the Grand Traverse Sheriff's Office for criminal review.
While most names were withheld to protect privacy and ongoing law enforcement proceedings, Interlochen identified several deceased former staff members facing multiple allegations.
These include former music director Byron Hanson, former administrator John Hood, and former trustee Charlie McWhorter.
The school also named former faculty member Thomas Clower and former camp counselor Jeremy Eden, both of whom were terminated and criminally convicted following past abuse reports.
Jeffrey Epstein Allegations
The report detailed allegations involving financier Jeffrey Epstein, who was an Interlochen donor between 1990 and 2003.
Two former students reported that Epstein engaged in physical contact of a sexual nature with them.
One student stated that Epstein paid for her tuition but withdrew support after she refused his sexual demands.
Interlochen severed ties with Epstein in 2008 following his Florida conviction and demolished a lodge named after him in June 2026 after inviting law enforcement to document it.
Many alumni reported long-term emotional and professional damage, including career disruption, ongoing post-traumatic stress disorder, and giving up the performing arts entirely.
The Sanghavi Law Office noted that multiple former students suffered lasting consequences after leaving the institution.
In response to the findings, Interlochen announced plans to issue formal apologies, establish a dedicated counseling fund for victims, expand community prevention education, and review campus naming recognitions.
School leadership expressed sorrow over the historical findings.
"The abuse described in the report is heartbreaking and is contrary to everything Interlochen stands for," said Trey Devey, president of the Interlochen Center for the Arts.
Devey emphasized the institution's commitment to protecting its student body.
"We are grateful to everyone who came forward to share their experiences, and we are deeply sorry for the harm experienced by members of our community," he said.
Board Chair Barrett Rollins echoed these commitments. "Student safety is a bedrock requirement and fundamental responsibility of this institution," he said.
Rollins acknowledged that institutional reforms cannot erase past trauma but hope they demonstrate commitment to honoring those who came forward.
The report documented institutional communication lapses regarding past complaints involving Epstein. One mother reported concerns about Epstein to the administration but received no follow-up.
Investigators noted that the mother indicated no one from Interlochen ever followed up with her about the call.
Devey described his reaction when the initial allegation surfaced two years ago. "It was shocking," he said.
He reiterated that the abuse described is "absolutely heartbreaking" and contrary to everything the institution stands for.
Investigators described the findings as "simply, devastating."
They noted that despite deep positive connections many alumni felt toward Interlochen, some detailed significant negative impacts of the conduct they reported.
Devey confirmed that investigators had unrestricted scope across all school eras.
"There was no period of time that was blacked out or in any way not subject to this investigation," he said.
The final timeframe reflected the actual testimony gathered from the 1950s through the 2010s.
Interlochen is working with an artist to construct a campus installation honoring survivors and reminding the community of student safety commitments.
The institution remains open to receiving additional reports from alumni and encourages anyone with information to contact the investigators directly.
