A 19-year-old individual from Edgerton, Dawson Vander Top, is facing charges of felony-level fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct involving a minor. These charges stem from an incident that occurred on August 11.
A Pipestone County Sheriff’s deputy spoke with a 15-year-old victim who reported an incident involving Vander Top. A victim reported an incident involving Vander Top, where they were together and driving around town. During this time, Vander Top’s behavior became inappropriate, crossing boundaries by touching the victim’s thigh and continuing to touch them through their jeans.
The victim also stated that, after parking the car on a street, Vander Top touched them inappropriately. When Vander Top proposed going back to his house for an intimate encounter, the victim responded with disbelief, asking, “Are you being serious?” I’m just 15 years old and we just met today.”
Deputies later spoke with Vander Top, who apparently corroborated the victim’s account to law enforcement. He acknowledged being aware of the victim’s age and the illegality of engaging in sexual activity with a minor.
Vander Top’s court appearance is set for Aug. 20 in Pipestone County Fifth District Court.
