Macomb Township — Police arrested former Austin Catholic High School admissions director Joe Sturza on Nov. 26 on charges that he sent inappropriate and sexually explicit messages to a minor.

Sturza, 47, was removed from his position by the Archdiocese of Detroit as soon as it was made aware of the allegations, according to Macomb County Sheriff Anthony Wickersham. The archdiocese has cooperated in the investigation.

Sturza had been employed at Austin since October 2012, and also had been a part-time youth minister at St. Isisdore Parish in Macomb since the summer. He is no longer employed by either the school or parish.

Sturza is charged with child sexual abuse activity, using a computer to commit a crime and accosting a child for immoral purposes after a victim’s parents intercepted sexually graphic emails allegedly sent by Sturza.

Sturza had also volunteered with St. Francis of Assisi-St. Maximillian Kolbe Parish in Ray Township from 2006-08 and worked as a youth minister there from 2008-14. He also worked as a youth minister at St. Mary Mystical Rose Parish in Armada from 2011-14. Both parishes have been informed of the situation.

To report matters of inappropriate contact between an adult and a minor, individuals are encouraged to contact local law enforcement. Individuals also may report matters by calling the Archdiocese of Detroit’s victim assistance line at (866) 343-8055.