Professor, 45, at church-owned BYU ‘sexually abused a student in office where he gave “priesthood blessing”’
A PROFESSOR at Brigham Young University in Utah has been accused of sexually abusing a student and allegedly touching her inappropriately during meetings in his office.
Former head of the Urban and Regional Planning in the Geography Department at the Private University owned by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Michael James Clay, 45, allegedly gave the student a “priesthood blessing” and told her he was inspired by God to have physical contact with her.
According to Daily Mail, Clay invited the student to listen to “mediation music” and told the victim that his office was a safe place after she told him she was having “emotional difficulties.”
He also allegedly told her not to tell anyone what went on in the office.
Clay told the student that “he could make her feel better and make all the negative feelings go away,” the charges state.
They also state that Clay said he could be her emotional and physical support.
The student considered Clay to be a mentor and therapist.
Clay reportedly told the victim she needed to “change her bod chemistry” and “practice how to be a good wife”, he told her that he could help her.
The alleged abuse took place between January and March.
One incident happened between January 15 and February 15 when Clay drove the student up a canyon and touched her behind over her clothing.
The student told Clay it was ok when he asked because “she felt like she had to say yes”, the charging document stated.
During a meeting in his office in February, he had her straddle his lap and he “dry humped” her.
When the victim told Clay “that’s enough”, he didn’t stop until she objected two more times.
The professor also allegedly texted her to say she was making good progress and that it was his job to “help (her) on the inside.”
The victim claims Clay told her to delete text messages between them.
On one occasion, Clay allegedly told the student that he prayed about her and felt “inspired from God to engage in physical contact” with her.
Clay, who had the authority to hire interns and teaching assistants at the school, told the victim that if she trusted him more, he might be able to hire her.
According to a BYU spokesman, Clay hasn’t been employed at the university since mid-April, Daily Mail reported.
Clay has been charged with two counts of forcible sexual abuse with bail set at $21,000.
The second degree felony is punishable by one to 15 years in prison.
According to Daily Mail, BYU is referring all questions to the Utah County Attorney’s Office.