By Christopher Johnson
A two-year investigation has resulted in felony charges against David Coker, 51, of Clare, who has been accused of swindling the state and lining his own pockets.
Coker, a former legislative aide and head of the Clare County Republican Party, founded a nonprofit organization aimed to construct a health park in Clare across 70 acres. The proposed Complete Health Park was an ambitious project, and pitched a variety of facilities, including a pool, fitness center, athletic courts, and medical office spaces.
Coker is accused of misusing a $25 million grant secured through a state budget. Ac-cording to authorities, he allegedly used some of the grant money for personal purchases, in-cluding vehicles, firearms accessories, and precious metals. The illegal transfers to his personal bank account yield “hundreds of thousands” of dollars in embezzlement.
This past Wednesday morning, his home off Wilcox Parkway was surrounded by local law enforcement in what Coker’s defense attorney describes as an “ambush-style” arrest. Coker was taking a shower at the time when police converged on the property, which also consisted of multiple towings of vehicles. Bewildered neighbors watched as the scene unfolded, as Coker was eventually brought out and taken away by Clare police.
After being transported to the Ingham County Jail, Coker appeared for arraignment via video before District Court Judge Kristen D. Simmons. During the proceeding, his attorney stated that Coker intends to contest the charges.
Coker faces several, including running a criminal enterprise, making false claims, misusing public funds, and embezzling over $100,000. If found guilty, he could face up to 20 years in prison and would have to give up assets he bought with the grant money.
