Poplarville, MS – A Mississippi man has been charged with multiple felony sex offenses after investigators alleged he sexually abused a teenage girl who was living with his family. His mother was also arrested after authorities accused her of attempting to interfere with the investigation.
According to the Pearl River County Sheriff’s Office, 27-year-old Dawson James Brown was arrested on one count of statutory rape, one count of human trafficking, and two counts of sexual battery. His mother, 54-year-old Sabrina Brown, was charged with conspiracy to commit tampering with evidence, attempted tampering with physical evidence, and child neglect.
Investigation began after child welfare referral
The investigation began on or about June 30 after the sheriff’s office received a referral from the Mississippi Department of Child Protection Services regarding a report involving a 14-year-old girl. Detectives said the investigation led to felony arrest warrants for both defendants.
Authorities have not identified the juvenile and asked the public not to share information that could reveal the child’s identity. The investigation remains active, and investigators said additional arrests are possible.
Investigators cite digital evidence
According to court records referenced by WLOX, the teenage girl was living with the Brown family when the alleged offenses occurred. Investigators reportedly recovered images, videos, and electronic communications from Dawson Brown’s cellphone that they allege support the charges.
Court records also state investigators obtained additional evidence through witness interviews as part of the ongoing investigation. The allegations outlined in the charging documents have not been proven in court.
Mother accused of interfering with investigation
Investigators allege Sabrina Brown attempted to influence the investigation after learning law enforcement was reviewing the case. Court documents state she instructed the juvenile regarding DNA-related information that investigators were seeking.
Authorities also cited text messages they allege show Sabrina Brown attempted to direct the juvenile’s communications with investigators. She posted a $10,000 bond and was released from custody, while Dawson Brown remains jailed without bond after a judge determined he was a flight risk.
Why it matters
The case involves allegations of child sexual abuse, human trafficking, and witness tampering. Authorities emphasize that the investigation remains ongoing, and all criminal charges are allegations until proven in court.
