Michigan Psychologist Michael Varney Sent to Prison on Felony Drug, Sex, Fraud Charges

July 1, 2019

MARQUETTE, Mich. - Army veteran, previous public safety officer, and former U.P. psychologist Michael Varney, of Caspian, was sentenced to 4.5 to 15 years in prison with credit for 282 days already served and owes $427,558.17 in restitution after being accused of providing drugs to his patients in exchange for sexual favors.

"I spent my entire life trying to help and defend most, the mentally ill, those struggling with life, and it's clear at times I made mistakes, poor judgments,” said the 62-year-old.

Varney pleaded no contest to ten counts including three counts of criminal sexual conduct second-degree during a felony; three counts of controlled substance, delivery less than 50 grams; one count of Medicaid fraud-conspiracy; and three counts of healthcare fraud, false claims.

Varney's victim was at the sentencing Friday to give her victim impact statement, but was almost unable to as she's an incarcerated criminal at the Dickinson County Jail for possession of marijuana.

"I'm doing this so he won't be able to hurt anyone else. I standing here today for the women who were too scared to speak up and tell you that he can't take advantage of them ever again,” his victim said.

Varney was originally charged with 50 felonies in three U.P. counties--Dickinson, Iron, and Marquette counties--but all charges in Dickinson and Iron counties were dismissed as part of a plea agreement.

Varney is now a registered sex offender, has lost his medical license, and will not be practicing psychology any longer.

Source: “Former UP Psychologist sentenced on drug, criminal sexual conduct charges,” FOX TV 6 (Upper Peninsula, MI), May 28, 2019. URL: https://www.uppermichiganssource.com/content/news/Former-UP-Psychologist-sentenced-on-drug-criminal-sexual-conduct-charges-511961061.html