Marine Corps Recruiter Faces Federal Charges of Sexual Exploitation and Child Pornography
In a case drawing significant attention, a U.S. Marine Corps recruiter from Tupelo, Mississippi, has been federally charged with multiple counts of sexual exploitation and child pornography. The federal indictment follows an earlier state charge of sexual battery involving a minor.
Brady Patrick Dean, aged 24, has been in custody without bond since September following allegations involving a high school student. The federal indictment, handed down on December 4, accuses Dean of crimes against at least two minors.
The federal charges specify two counts of sexual exploitation of a child and two counts of receiving child sexual abuse material. The allegations include Dean’s solicitation of minors to engage in explicit acts for filming on March 12 and September 11, as well as the receipt of child pornography on June 8 and September 11 or 12.
These charges are severe, with each count of sexual exploitation carrying a potential sentence of 15 to 30 years in prison, while the child pornography charges could lead to sentences of 5 to 20 years each.
Recently, Dean was transferred to the Lafayette County Detention Center for his initial court appearance via video before Magistrate David Sanders in Aberdeen. Following his arraignment, he was ordered to remain detained until his trial, scheduled for February in Oxford under U.S. District Judge Michael Mills.
The case began in September when Dean was arrested by Tupelo Police. He was accused of sexually assaulting a 17-year-old girl who had shown interest in joining the military. The incident reportedly occurred at Dean’s residence, and the victim reported the crime to authorities, leading to the involvement of TPD.
The victim alleged Dean provided her with alcohol on several occasions, leading to an incident where she passed out and later found Dean on top of her. Despite her protests, stating “No. I’m 17 and you’re my recruiter,” the assault allegedly continued. Dean reportedly instructed her to lie about her age during a subsequent encounter.
Additionally, Dean allegedly sent explicit images to the minor, requesting similar photos in return. A police investigation uncovered approximately 45 images and several videos on the victim’s phone.
Due to the nature of his role and the allegations, Dean faces charges of sexual battery, a charge that stands irrespective of claimed consent due to his position of trust.
The state case against Dean is still in progress and awaits potential grand jury proceedings in Lee County.
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