Man Named Foster Father Of Year Accused Of Abuse

Man Named Foster Father Of Year Accused Of Abuse

Police Say Man Confessed To Crimes

April 6, 2005

GARDEN CITY, Mich. -- A man who was given the title of foster father of the year is now accused of sexually abusing some of the people who were formerly in his care, WDIV-TV in Detroit reported.

Gary McCoy, 49, was charged Monday with three counts of first-degree criminal sexual conduct.

A 25-year-old woman who was a foster child of McCoy's and was later adopted by the man told police that he had abused her, the station reported. A 14-year-old and another person in their 20s -- who was formerly in McCoy's care -- also came forward with similar allegations, police said.

McCoy (pictured, right) was arrested at his Garden City home. Police said he later confessed to the crimes.

"He does state that he thinks he may have a problem and that he would like some sort of treatment," Garden City Detective Sgt. Ron Umbarger told the judge on Monday.

McCoy has adopted seven children. The three alleged victims said they were molested starting at age 14, Local 4 reported.

The 25-year-old woman said she feared for her safety and asked the judge not to allow McCoy to go free on bond.

"(We're) afraid that if he does get out on bond, that he may come to where I live or where my mom lives," the alleged victim said.

The judge set McCoy's bond at $1 million.

McCoy is scheduled to appear for a preliminary examination on April 18 at 9 a.m.

If convicted, each charge against McCoy carries a penalty of up to life in prison, the station reported.