Terpening takes stand in own defense

HASTINGS, Mich. (WOOD) - Michael Terpening, accused of 13 sex assault charges involving teens who were at a camp he ran in Bellevue, took the witness stand in his own defense at his trial in Barry County.

The case began when Terpening was arrested on August 24, 2011. Over time, additional charges were filed against him. He also faces an insurance fraud charge in a separate case.

On the last day of the nine-day trial, Terpening was on the stand for several hours as he was questioned by his own attorney, Thomas Schaeffer, and then cross examined by a deputy attorney general who is the prosecutor in this case.  

Much of Terpening's testimony focused on his work with animals at the house for troubled teens he used to run.  He also spoke about the troubled pasts of many of his alleged teen victims. He mentioned things like criminal charges and past suicide attempts.  

Terpening denied every one of the 13 charges he faces.

He did admit that someone may have interpreted touching incorrectly, but he denies ever touching anyone inappropriately.  

Assistant Attorney General Angela Povilaitis questioned Terpening on his history of choosing troubled teens to bring into his life.  

"The more vulnerable the foster child the better," Povilatis said in her closing statement. "The kid least likely to be believed.  He specifically uses that adoption catalog like a Sears catalog ... as his own menu as what he wants and who he wants and he follows up with those."  

Terpening's defense attorney implied that this entire trial is a witch hunt.  

"It's an emotional plea that has been given to you," said defense attorney Thomas Schaeffer. "The judge will tell you you cannot make your decision based on emotion. You have to make your decision based on facts."

A jury was selected for the trial on October 22. Terpening was the final witness for the defense.

Judge Amy McDowell told jurors some adjustments need to be made to their final instructions before they can begin deliberating. She said she anticipates they will get the case Friday morning.