NEWS RELEASE
DATE REPORTED: Friday, May 24, 2024
LOCATION OCCURRED: 4200 block of Glen Street
INCIDENT SUMMARY: On May 21, 2024 the Township of Kalamazoo Criminal Investigation Unit received information from the Michigan State Police indicating an adult male made statements and inquiries online, in an effort to sexually assault a child at a specific location within Kalamazoo Township.
Through investigation, Township of Kalamazoo Police detectives were able to identify the suspect as WILLIAM ISAAK SPARKS, a 23-year-old man from Martin, Michigan. On May 24, 2024, detectives surveilled SPARKS directly to the proposed location on the date and time where he intended to meet an underage victim. Sparks was taken into custody without incident, and he was lodged at the Kalamazoo County Jail pending charges. Follow up investigation revealed no child was in danger.
The Kalamazoo County Prosecutor’s Office reviewed the investigation and authorized the following charge:
- Attempted Criminal Sexual Conduct 2nd Degree: A felony offense for which the offender may receive up to 5 years in prison.
On May 28, 2024 WILLIAM SPARKS was arraigned by the Honorable Judge Ankley and given a $150,000 cash or surety bond.
This case remains under investigation and anyone with information is asked to call Silent Observer at (269) 343-2100 or the Township of Kalamazoo Police Department – Criminal Investigation Unit at (269) 381-0391.
ASSISTING AGENCIES: Michigan State Police
FOR NEWS RELEASE BEGINNING: DATE: May 30, 2024 TIME: 5:00 p.m.
AUTHOR: Detective Sergeant Georgeann Ergang