MOUNT CLEMENS, Mich. – Michael Cristini, 62, of Warren, has waived his preliminary examination and will now face prosecution in Macomb County Circuit Court on multiple felony charges involving alleged child sexually abusive material.
According to Macomb County Prosecutor Peter J. Lucido, Cristini waived his right to a preliminary exam on Thursday, February 19, 2026, before Steven Bieda in the 37th District Court in Warren. By waiving the exam, the case was automatically bound over to circuit court.
Cristini is scheduled to be arraigned before Matthew P. Sabaugh in Macomb County Circuit Court on Monday, March 9, 2026, at 1:30 p.m.
Charges Filed
Cristini is charged with:
- Three counts of Aggravated Possession of Child Sexually Abusive Material, each a 10-year felony
- Three counts of Possession of Child Sexually Abusive Material, each a 4-year felony
- Three counts of Using a Computer to Commit a Crime related to Aggravated Possession, each a 10-year felony
- Three counts of Using a Computer to Commit a Crime related to Possession, each a 7-year felony
- Habitual Offender – 2nd Offense Notice, which could enhance sentencing if convicted
Prosecutors state these are the maximum charges available under Michigan law based on the evidence presented to date.
Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Justin Pollard represented the People during the district court proceeding.
In a statement, Lucido said the allegations involve conduct that the justice system treats with the utmost seriousness because of the harm it causes to children and communities. He said the office will continue pursuing the case with a focus on accountability and the protection of vulnerable victims.
A waiver of preliminary examination is not an admission of guilt. It simply moves the case from district court to circuit court without testimony being presented at that stage.
Cristini is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
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- NMD Staff
Staff@NewMediaDetroit.com