A trip to Shaw Park Aquatic Center in Clayton ended with an arrest on Tuesday after two children told police they had been inappropriately touched while at the pool. Authorities identified the suspect as 27-year-old Brenden T. Tucker and said the alleged victims are both under 12. Tucker was taken into custody at the scene and remains jailed on a cash-only bond, according to police.
FOX2 reports that Clayton police said the children told investigators Tucker touched their genitals through their swimsuits, according to Cpl. Jenny Schwartz. The St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney's office has filed two counts of second-degree child molestation against Tucker, and police told FOX2 he was on parole at the time of his arrest. Investigators also said Tucker has prior convictions that include second-degree assault, armed criminal action, second-degree robbery, fourth-degree assault and resisting arrest, and that he is being held on a $250,000 cash-only bond.
Shaw Park Aquatic Center
According to the City of Clayton, Shaw Park Aquatic Center is the community’s main pool complex and features a 50-meter competition pool along with a children’s pool. The city lists the facility’s location on South Brentwood Boulevard and provides details on seasonal hours, swim programs and family-friendly activities at the site.
Investigation and How to Help
Investigators are asking anyone who may have information about the alleged incidents to contact the Clayton Police Department at 314-290-8416, as reported by FOX2. Police say they are following up on leads and are urging anyone who may have phone video, photos or other information from the pool that day to come forward so detectives can complete their investigation.
Legal Process
Tucker has been charged by the St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney's office and his case will move through the county court system. He is presumed innocent unless and until he is proven guilty in a court of law.
Police and prosecutors say the investigation is ongoing, and any further updates will come from the Clayton Police Department or the St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney's office as the case progresses.
