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Saginaw-area priest arraigned for 2nd time on sex charges

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A Saginaw-area Catholic priest has been arraigned a second time on sexual assault charges.

The Saginaw News reports that the Rev. Robert DeLand appeared Friday in Saginaw County District Court via video from jail.

The 71-year-old DeLand is charged with second-degree criminal sexual conduct, assault with intent to commit second-degree criminal sexual conduct, manufacturing or distributing an imitation controlled substance and selling or furnishing alcohol to a minor.

A not guilty plea was entered. His next court date is April 20.

DeLand of Freeland originally was charged in February with criminal sexual conduct for allegedly assaulting two males, ages 21 and 17. He pleaded not guilty at that time. The diocese suspended him.

Last month, police raided diocese offices, a bishop's home and the rectory of a Saginaw church.