Seattle - A 34-year-old resident of Port Angeles, Washington, was indicted late yesterday by a federal grand jury for two counts of sexual abuse of a minor, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman. Briceson R. Standley has been detained since his arrest on a criminal complaint on June 15, 2023.
According to records filed in the case, in April and June 2022, Standley met up with a 15-year-old youth who he had communicated with on a social media app. In the first encounter, Standley sexually molested the youth. In the second encounter, Standley allegedly carried a machete and a pocketknife. Standley allegedly raped the youth. The 15-year-old ceased any communication with Standley and ultimately reported the conduct to a health care provider.
An investigation by the U.S. Park Service determined that the alleged assaults took place on a portion of Olympic National Park land. Federal courts have jurisdiction over such land.
Sexual abuse of a minor is punishable by up to 15 years in prison.
The charges contained in the indictment are only allegations. A person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The case is being investigated by the Investigative Services Branch of the National Park Service and Port Angeles Police Department.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kristine L. Foerster.
Source: U.S. Department of Justice, Office of the United States Attorneys