Steven Gress. Autographed Postcard, Signed. Handwritten, Commercial #10 (4.125 × 9.5 envelope). Tampa, FL. April 7, 2025. Content unknown. SEALED.

The Ring and the Silence: The Murder of Miranda Corsette

Basic Information

Steven Robert Gress was born on July 11, 1989, in Michigan. At the time of his arrest, he resided at 2708 27th Avenue North in St. Petersburg, Florida. Gress is currently incarcerated at the Pinellas County Jail, facing charges including first-degree murder, kidnapping, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, possession of controlled substances, and resisting arrest without violence.​

Background

Little is publicly known about Gress's early life and family background. He lived in a modest duplex in St. Petersburg's Ponce de Leon neighborhood, an area characterized by mid-century ranch homes and quiet streets. Neighbors noted that Gress frequently brought home young, disadvantaged women, often homeless or struggling with addiction. He was in a relationship with Michelle Brandes, and they shared the residence with another woman who had previously been involved with Gress. This woman described a volatile household where Gress was physically abusive and exhibited disturbing behavior, including the killing of animals obtained through Craigslist.​

Criminal Activity

On February 14, 2025, Gress met 16-year-old Miranda Corsette through a dating app. Miranda, a homeschooled teen living with her grandmother in Gulfport, Florida, had a history of running away and struggled with mental health and substance abuse issues. She was also the mother of a one-year-old child. After their initial meeting, Miranda returned to Gress's home the following day and remained there.

A few days later, Gress accused Miranda of stealing a ring that held sentimental value to him. This accusation led to a week-long ordeal where Miranda was subjected to severe beatings and torture by both Gress and Brandes. Witnesses reported that Gress sent photos of Miranda, nude and bruised, to several individuals, including his mother. Despite at least six people being aware of Miranda's captivity and abuse, none reported it to the authorities.

On February 23, the torture culminated in Miranda's death. Brandes allegedly suffocated her by wrapping her head in plastic and inserting a billiard ball into her mouth, while Gress failed to intervene in time. Following her death, the couple transported Miranda's body to Brandes's mother's home in Largo, Florida. There, they dismembered her remains using a chainsaw and placed the parts into white trash bags. Afterward, they went out to celebrate Brandes's birthday, dining at Popeyes and playing mini-golf, before disposing of the remains in a dumpster near Gress's grandparents' residence in Ruskin. Authorities believe the dumpster's contents were incinerated, making the recovery of Miranda's body unlikely.

Legal Proceedings

Gress was arrested on March 5, 2025, after threatening Brandes with an air-powered harpoon gun during an argument. At the time, he was also found in possession of controlled substances. While in custody, a witness came forward with information about Miranda's disappearance, prompting an investigation that led to the murder charges. Brandes turned herself in to the police on March 8. Both were indicted on charges of first-degree murder and kidnapping, with prosecutors announcing their intention to seek the death penalty. Additional charges against Gress include aggravated assault, possession of controlled substances, and resisting arrest. As of now, both remain in custody without bond, awaiting trial.

Impact on Victims and Society

Miranda Corsette's death left a profound impact on her family, particularly her grandmother, who is now caring for Miranda's one-year-old child. The case shocked the St. Petersburg community, raising concerns about the failure of bystanders to report the abuse and the dangers posed by online predators. Public outrage has led to discussions about implementing stricter laws to protect vulnerable individuals and ensure timely intervention in cases of suspected abuse.

Current Status

Both Steven Gress and Michelle Brandes are incarcerated at the Pinellas County Jail, facing multiple charges related to Miranda's death. There is no indication of rehabilitation efforts, and given the severity of their alleged crimes, they are considered significant threats to society. The legal proceedings are ongoing, with the possibility of additional charges as the investigation continues.​

Conclusion

The tragic case of Miranda Corsette underscores the critical importance of community vigilance and the need for swift action when signs of abuse are evident. It highlights the dangers vulnerable individuals face, especially when engaging with strangers online. This case serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of inaction and the necessity for systemic changes to protect at-risk populations.​

Additional Note

Given the notoriety of this case, any autographed items associated with Steven Gress may hold value for collectors due to their rarity. However, it's essential to approach such memorabilia with ethical considerations in mind.​

VIDEO: Florida Teen Dismembered by Man She Met on Dating App: Police | https://youtu.be/doidPv4Zq-s

Archiving Protocol:

• Handled with White Gloves ab initio

• Photo Pages/Sheet Protectors: Heavyweight Clear Sheet Protectors, Acid Free & Archival Safe, 8.5 × 11, Top Load

• White Backing Board – Acid Free

Shipping/Packaging: Rigid Mailer 9.5 × 12.5. White, self-seal, stay-flat, Kraft cardboard, no bend. Each rigid mailer is made of heavy cardboard, which has strong resistance to bending and tearing. Thicker that the USPS mailers. Shipping cost never more than it absolutely has to be to get it from me to you.