Founder of Haitian Orphanage sentenced to 210 years for Child sex abuse
A decades-long crime disguised as charity has ended in conviction, Michael Geilenfeld’s sentencing shines a spotlight on the bravery of survivors and the global need to hold abusers of power accountable.
Michael Karl Geilenfeld, a 73-year-old from Colorado, was sentenced to 210 years in federal prison for sexually abusing children at the St. Joseph's Home for Boys, an orphanage he founded in Haiti in 1985. The facility, initially established to support orphaned and vulnerable children, became the site of prolonged sexual, physical, and emotional abuse perpetrated by Geilenfeld over several decades.
During the trial, six victims, now adults, testified about the abuse they endured between 2005 and 2010. Although additional victims came forward, Geilenfeld was formally charged for crimes against these six individuals. He was arrested in Colorado in January 2024 and convicted in February 2025 of one count of traveling internationally to engage in illicit sexual conduct and six counts of sexual abuse abroad.
U.S. officials condemn orphanage founder’s abuse and praise survivors’ courage
U.S. Justice Department officials condemned Geilenfeld's misuse of a position of trust under the guise of humanitarianism. Matthew Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department's Criminal Division stated that the defendant's sustained sexual and physical.
Geilenfeld also operated other orphanages in Haiti and the Dominican Republic. Authorities lauded the courage of the survivors, stimony was critical to holding him accountable. Jose A. Perez, Assistant Director emphasized the importance of the victims' bravery in coming forward.
Abuse conviction brings justice and dignity to victims
Paul Kendrick, an individual who made accusations of abuse against remarked on the impact of the conviction. He acknowledged that while the conviction does not erase the trauma, it provides the victims with a sense of dignity.
St. Joseph’s Home for Boys, the orphanage founded by Michael Karl Geilenfeld, central to the abuse case that led to his 210-year sentence. Photo: X
The conviction, while not erasing the trauma, was seen as a step toward justice and dignity for the victims. The case highlights the importance of vigilance and accountability in organizations serving vulnerable populations. Authorities continue to encourage victims of abuse to come forward and seek justice.
