Brockton Man Charged With Enticing Minor Following East Bridgewater Investigation, Police Say

EAST BRIDGEWATER, MA — A 55-year-old Brockton man has been arrested and charged following an investigation into alleged sexual exploitation involving a juvenile from East Bridgewater, according to police.

East Bridgewater police said the investigation began in September after authorities received a report of alleged inappropriate contact between a juvenile and an adult man.

According to investigators, the two initially met and communicated through social media before meeting in person on multiple occasions. Police allege the juvenile was sexually assaulted during those encounters.

Authorities identified the suspect as Derek Gaughan, 55, of Brockton. Police said Gaughan is a Level 3 sex offender.

On October 8, investigators obtained an arrest warrant for Gaughan and a search warrant for his residence in Brockton. Police said both warrants were executed that day and Gaughan was taken into custody without incident.

Gaughan faces charges of enticement of a minor and electronic enticement of a minor for commercial sexual activity, according to authorities.

Because the alleged assaults occurred in Brockton, Brockton police pursued additional charges related to those allegations, East Bridgewater police said.

Gaughan was arraigned in Brockton District Court on October 9, where bail was set at $100,000.

The investigation remains ongoing. Authorities have not announced further details regarding any additional charges.

Presumption of innocence: The charges are allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

Source: Boston 25 News WFXT and East Bridgewater Police Department.

Original reporting and official statements: Boston 25 News | East Bridgewater Police announcement