Authorities in Florida have arrested a man and his partner in connection with the abduction and murder of 16-year-old Miranda Corsette, who was reported missing on February 24.
Steven Gress, 35, is facing charges of kidnapping, while his 37-year-old partner, Michelle Brandes, turned herself in on Saturday morning. Both individuals have now been charged with first-degree murder in Corsette’s death, according to police.
Investigators believe that Corsette was killed sometime between February 20 and 24 following a dispute with Gress and Brandes.
Disturbing Details Emerge in the Investigation
On March 6, a witness came forward with information regarding a possible kidnapping and homicide involving the missing teen, prompting a police investigation.
Detectives discovered that Corsette had been lured through a social media app to meet Gress on February 14. After their initial meeting, she returned home but went back to his residence the following day, where she remained with Gress and Brandes.
Authorities say that after Corsette was killed, Gress transported her body in a car to a house in Largo. Evidence found at the residence suggests that her remains were dismembered before being taken to Hillsborough County and disposed of in a dumpster. Law enforcement officials have since located the dumpster and are actively searching for her remains.
Suspect Already in Custody for Unrelated Charges
Prior to being charged in Corsette’s case, Gress was already in jail on unrelated offenses. He had been arrested on March 5 for allegedly threatening his partner with a harpoon and possessing illegal drugs.
The investigation remains ongoing, and police anticipate additional charges.
Attorney information for Gress and Brandes has not yet been made available.