Darren Bradford, 24, from Berkley, has been arrested on charges of sexual conduct and distributing illegal substances to minors.
The Berkley Department of Public Safety said they received a tip regarding the 24-year-old man where witnesses observed frequent visits to his apartment from minors and alerted public safety with their concerns on Feb. 5.
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Detectives performed an undercover investigation to identify several minors visiting Bradford’s apartment during the day.
Officials said they later discovered that Bradford was frequently taking the minors to lunch or during the evening and distributing illegal substances and alcohol.
Police said it was later reported during the investigation that one minor had sexual acts committed against them.
On Feb. 21, 2025, charges were issued by the Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office for Bradford and he was taken into custody at his home.
Bradford was arraigned in the 44th District Court on one count of criminal sexual conduct in the 3rd Degree (minor age 13-15).
He was given a $175,000 cash bond, GPS tether with location restrictions, and other considerable bond conditions to protect minors.
A date was set for a preliminary exam in the near future.
Berkley detectives said they’re continuing to investigate and would be pursuing further requests for charges for distributing marijuana vapes and cartridges, alcohol, and nicotine vape products to numerous different minors from the area and surrounding metro communities.
According to officials, the investigation will uncover the depth of his deceit, its duration, the profits he made, and his illegal acts.
Berkley DPS said there was concern that Bradford may have engaged in other incidents with additional minors.
Officials said they wanted to raise community awareness and encourage parents to speak with their minors who may have been victims or have information to share regarding interactions between the suspect and victims.
Potential witnesses or victims are asked to contact detectives at 248-658-3390, DB@berkleymi.gov, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-Speak-Up.
All tips to Crime Stoppers are anonymous. Click here to submit a tip online.
