BERKLEY (WWJ) — A 24-year-old Berkley man has been charged with sexually assaulting a minor and he could face further charges.
The Berkley Department of Public Safety announced Friday that Darren Bradford has been arraigned on one count of third-degree criminal sexual conduct (minor age 13-15).
An investigation began in early February when Berkley detectives got a tip that Bradford had “frequent visits to his apartment from minors.” Undercover investigators were able to identify several minors visiting his apartment during the day.
Investigators discovered that Bradford was “frequently taking the minors to lunch or during evenings, and distributing illegal substances and alcohol,” according to police. They later discovered that at least one minor “had sexual acts committed against them.”
Berkley detectives are continuing to investigate and will be seeking further charges against Bradford for allegedly distributing marijuana vapes & cartridges, alcohol, and nicotine vape products to numerous different minors from the area and surrounding metro communities.
“The investigation is uncovering the depth of his deceit, length of time, profits, and illegal acts he was committing,” BDPS officials said in a press release.
Authorities believe Bradford may have engaged in criminal sexual conduct with other minors. BDPS officials are asking parents to speak with their minors who may have been a victim of Bradford or know something about interactions between him and other minors.
Potential witnesses or victims are encouraged to contact Berkley detectives by calling 248-658-3390 or emailing DB@berkleymi.gov.
Bradford’s bond was set at 175,000 and he was ordered to wear a GPS tether with location restrictions and other “considerable bond conditions to protect minors.” While officials said he is due in court soon for a preliminary exam on the CSC charge, no date was released.
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