Mich. pilot instructor accused of sexual contact with 15-year-old while flying plane
04/11/2023 11:34 am PDT
MACOMB COUNTY, Mich. (TCD) -- A 71-year-old pilot instructor is accused of having a sexual relationship with a 15-year-old girl.
In early March, the Michigan State Police announced an investigation into Rex Dale Phelps, who allegedly had inappropriate contact with the victim for several months. Police executed search warrants at the Ray Township Airport and Phelps’ home last month.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation said Phelps allegedly had sexual contact with the victim "while they were aboard an aircraft."
WDIV-TV reports that Phelps, who is also a retired teacher from Dakota High School, texted the girl and sent her a photo of a woman and man kissing in bed. He allegedly messaged her, "Shortly after the shower ... without that top. Maybe more."
Phelps also reportedly discussed "being in love" with the girl via text and asked her to delete the messages and "stick to the story."
The victim reportedly told officials Phelps repeatedly said, "I hope I’m not grooming you."
According to WDIV, the victim recounted that Phelps kissed her for the first time on a plane to Frankenmuth on Jan. 14. A couple days later, he allegedly kissed her multiple times in the air again. Because of the alleged kissing, the plane had to turn off course.
In addition to the kissing, Phelps reportedly touched the victim’s leg inappropriately while they were in the air in January and February.
A complaint obtained by WDIV alleged the girl said he "moved higher each time they flew together."
In an interview, Phelps reportedly confessed to touching the girl, but he denied allegations of any other inappropriate contact. He also told officials he planned to have sex with the girl when she was 16 years old, WDIV reports.
Police said Phelps was arrested and charged with accosting a child for immoral purposes and criminal sexual conduct with a victim 13 to 15 years old. His bond was set at $50,000.
Additionally, Phelps faces a federal charge of abusive sexual contact in an aircraft, according to the FBI. Federal investigators have asked for the public’s help in identifying additional potential victims.
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