A Melbourne man was recently charged with two counts of sexual assault in the second degree, class “b” felonies. Joseph Edward Brown, age 20is accused of having sexual intercourse with a thirteen year old female on at least two occasions. During interviews with the Izard County Sheriff’s Department and the Arkansas State Police, Brown admitted that he and the thirteen year old had sexual intercourse on May 21 and 22nd of 2011. Brown initially stated that the minor female had told him she was seventeen and that he believed that to be her age at the time of the sexual activity. Sheriff Tate Lawrence said that Brown later changed his statement and admitted that he was aware that the minor female was only thirteen prior to initiating sexual intercourse with her. Brown, according to Sheriff Lawrence remains in the Izard County Detention Facility in lieu of $25,000 bond and a department of correction hold.


NOTE: Picture of Brown provided.

News Release
For Immediate Release
June 6, 2011
POC: Sheriff Tate Lawrence
870-368-4203

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