Rex Phelps, Abusive Sexual Contact of a Child, Michigan 2023

DETROIT – A Harrison Township resident’s abuse of a minor has led to a 24-month prison sentence for a serious crime.

Rex Phelps, 72, of Harrison Township, was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison for Abusive Sexual Contact of a Child, announced United States Attorney Dawn N. Ison.

Phelps, who was providing flying lessons to a 15-year-old girl, groomed and inappropriately touched the victim on several occasions. The abuse was uncovered after Phelps mistakenly sent a text message exchange to an unintended recipient, who then contacted police.

According to the investigation, Phelps exchanged text messages with the victim, including one with a picture of a man and a woman lying on a bed kissing. Phelps commented on the picture, “Shortly after the shower … without that top.  Maybe more.”

The case was investigated by special agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Tara Hindelang.

Rex Phelps was charged with Abusive Sexual Contact of a Child and pleaded guilty on October 26, 2023 before United States District Judge Stephen J. Murphy, III.

“This sentence reaffirms our office’s commitment to protecting the most innocent and vulnerable members of our community – children,” U.S. Attorney Ison said. “This defendant violated the trust that so many had placed in him, including the victim’s parents.”

Phelps was sentenced to the maximum sentence permitted by law, a 24-month prison term, and will serve time for the crime of Abusive Sexual Contact of a Child.

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