Florida man uses dating app to lure teen, police say

A gruesome crime has shocked the residents of St. Petersburg, Florida, as a couple is behind bars for the brutal murder of a 16-year-old girl they allegedly lured through an online dating app. Miranda Corsette’s body was found discarded in a dumpster just days after she was reported missing on Feb. 24, leaving her family and community devastated.

The St. Petersburg Police Department revealed that Steven Gress, 35, had used the popular dating app Grindr to entice Corsette to his residence, which was located approximately 20 miles away from Tampa. After meeting Gress for the first time, Corsette returned to his home the next day, a decision that would ultimately lead to her tragic demise.

Authorities believe that Corsette, who was a known runaway and a young mother, was staying at Gress’ house with his domestic partner, Michelle Brandes, following their initial meeting. It wasn’t until ten days later that Corsette’s grandmother, her primary caregiver, reported her missing to the Gulfport Police, as it was unusual for her not to return home promptly.

The horrifying details of Corsette’s murder began to unravel when Gress and Brandes accused her of stealing a ring, which led to a violent altercation. Court documents obtained by Fox News Digital revealed that the couple tortured Corsette over several days, ultimately suffocating her by stuffing a billiard ball in her mouth and wrapping her face in plastic wrap.

Police Chief Anthony Holloway disclosed that the teenager had been subjected to relentless beatings and torture in the days leading up to her death, all because of the missing piece of jewelry. Corsette was ultimately killed between Feb. 20 and Feb. 24, before Gress disposed of her dismembered remains in a dumpster in Hillsborough County.

The investigation into Corsette’s murder remains ongoing, with Gress already in custody for unrelated charges before being charged with first-degree murder and kidnapping. Brandes later turned herself in to police and was also charged with first-degree murder in connection with the heinous crime.

“This is a classic case of a vulnerable young lady who most likely sought attention online,” noted security expert Patrick McCall. “This attention came from a man who easily preyed on her and who told her the right things, and she fell into his trap.”

As predators continue to exploit online dating apps to target victims, experts are urging parents to monitor their children’s online activities and watch for any warning signs of potential danger. With recent cases like the Pennsylvania man who used Grindr to meet a teenage victim and a Virginia man convicted of using dating apps to commit murders, it’s crucial to remain vigilant and protect vulnerable individuals from falling victim to such heinous crimes.

The tragic loss of Miranda Corsette serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that lurk online, and the importance of staying alert and informed to prevent similar tragedies from befalling others. The St. Petersburg Police Department is dedicated to bringing justice to Corsette and holding all responsible parties accountable for their actions.