Digital Forensics Dispatch

Sexual Relations Between Psychologists and Inmate Clients? Mobile Phone Evidence Key

May 6, 2021

According to a recent report in the Duluth News Tribune, Michelle Brownfield, a psychologist in the Moose Lake Minnesota Sex Offender Program, or MSOP, has recently been charged with two counts of third-degree criminal sexual conduct.

These charges stem from an investigation undertaken by local police and the Minnesota Department of Human Services. The MSOP is a secure facility that, according to the article, treats “clients committed as sexually dangerous or sexually psychopathic personalities” after their release from the state correctional system.

The investigation began after authorities became aware of rumors alleging a relationship between Brownfield and one of her sex offender clients. The investigation turned up evidence in the form of victim reports and text messages that indicated Brownfield may have had sexual contact with not one but two of the clients under her care as a psychologist. The offenses were alleged to have taken place within the state-run facility in assessment and polygraph rooms.

Investigators from the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension recovered text messages between Brownfield and one of the victim’s sisters, who was passing messages along regarding the incidents and her “romantic feelings”.  Also recovered from her phone were messages sent to the other victim’s girlfriend and explicit photos.  If she is convicted of both counts Brownfield could see up to a 15-year sentence and a $30,000 fine.

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