Indian Spiritual Leader Charged With Fondling

A Chippewa Indian spiritual leader was charged Tuesday with fondling a woman who felt hypnotized after smoking a pipe, one of four women who say he molested them during ceremonies at his home.

John Sharlow, 63, who is recognized in the American Indian community as a spiritual leader and healer, told police he had to touch the women to release their power.

Four women have come forward so far to accuse Sharlow. Three, including a mother and her 14-year-old daughter - are Indians, themselves.

Sharlow told police he touched the women as part of the ceremonies. He told police, “I think I am right in the Indian way but probably wrong in the white man’s way.”