A Detroit physician, Stephen Bruce Mason, 54, is facing misdemeanor charges following an incident where he is reported to have made unsolicited sexual advances toward a 76-year-old woman and then proceeded to touch himself inappropriately in her presence. This event allegedly took place after the victim, whom Mason had reportedly befriended online, extended an invitation to her home upon returning from a hair salon appointment, as per Click On Detroit.
According to the details disclosed by the Macomb County Prosecutor's Office, as per The Detroit News, Mason is charged with assault, which carries a maximum sentence of 93 days, and aggravated indecent exposure, a two-year misdemeanor, having been arraigned last week and with his bond set at $1,000 and his next court date marked for August 22, The Detroit News reported. In light of the charges leveled against him, Mason's attorney was not immediately available for a response.
"Our legal system does not discriminate based on profession or social standing,” Macomb County Prosecutor Peter J. Lucido was quoted by The Detroit News, asserting the law's impartial application "Whether you are a doctor or any other member of the community, the law applies equally to everyone. We are dedicated to pursuing justice impartially, ensuring that all individuals are held accountable for their actions."
The severity of the accusation against Mason is accentuated by the allegation that after his sexual overtures were rejected by the woman, he did not simply leave. Instead, it is claimed he engaged in an act of public indecency, as cited by FOX 2 Detroit, and in a time where digital connections often precede face-to-face interactions, cases such as this serve to heighten awareness about online relationships culminating in offline encounters.
