VANDERBURGH COUNTY, Ind. (WPTA/Gray News) – A biological father and daughter are facing felony charges after allegedly marrying each other in Indiana.
Authorities say Bradley McCollum, 59, and Kimberly Tempel, 44, provided false information on a marriage license application. Tempel also faces an additional charge of bigamy, as she was still legally married at the time.
According to court records, the two married in July 2023 while Tempel was in the process of divorcing her spouse.
Investigators discovered several discrepancies on their marriage license application, including:
McCollum falsely stating he was not a convicted sex or violent offender—despite a previous federal child pornography conviction.
Both individuals denying they were married to their co-applicant.
McCollum providing an incorrect address.
Authorities say McCollum’s sister provided DNA evidence proving that he is Tempel’s biological father. The DNA report indicated a 99.999999% probability of their biological relationship.
According to court documents, McCollum and Tempel were estranged for years while he served time in federal prison but later reconnected through letters and emails. His sister believes their primary motive for marrying was so Tempel could claim McCollum’s $350 monthly Veterans Affairs benefits while he remains incarcerated.
McCollum is currently serving a federal sentence, with a scheduled release date of July 29, 2025.
