Paroled rapist charged after alleged masturbation indecent in shopping plaza parking lot

Brownstown Township, Mich. (BuzzReport) — A 35-year-old man with a prior conviction for a violent sexual assault is facing new charges after allegedly exposing himself and masturbating inside a vehicle in a busy suburban shopping plaza, according to authorities.

Kruze Jelks was charged Wednesday with a misdemeanor following an incident reported in February in Bloomfield Township. Investigators say a 14-year-old girl told police she observed Jelks sitting inside a truck in a parking lot off Telegraph Road near Maple Road with his genitals exposed while engaging in a sexual act.

The incident reportedly occurred during daytime hours in a heavily trafficked commercial area, raising concerns about public safety and the potential risk to minors. Police were notified after the teen reported what she witnessed, prompting an investigation that ultimately led to charges being filed.

Court records indicate Jelks was granted a $75,000 bond, with no 10% provision, meaning the full amount must be posted for release.

The case has drawn additional scrutiny due to Jelks’ criminal history. In 2008, he was convicted in Brownstown Township for the armed robbery and rape of a 40-year-old woman. That assault took place in a parking lot in broad daylight and occurred in the presence of the victim’s toddler, according to prior court proceedings.

Authorities have not released further details about the current case, and it is unclear whether additional charges could be pursued. The investigation remains ongoing.