RANDOLPH COUNTY — A repeat sex offender was arrested Thursday on suspicion of soliciting teen girls for sex after police were contacted by a predator catcher group.
The 40-year-old Muncie man's chat logs showed him engaged in sexual conversations with two members of the group who posed as 14-year-old girls, according to a news release from the Randolph County Sheriff's Department.
An investigation began when police were contacted by the group, PCM: Predator Catchers Muncie. Police first met with the group on Jan. 14.
MORE | Two found dead after early morning house fire in Monticello
The group provided the suspect's full chat logs, which also showed he had agreed to meet one of the members he believed to be a minor, the Sheriff's Department said.
Police later obtained a warrant for the man's arrest and arrested him at his home.
The suspect faces a felony count of child solicitation, which carries a penalty of one to six years if convicted and a fine of up to $10,000.
MORE | Teen accused of taking staff member, two other kids hostage at children's home
He was previously convicted in two separate child solicitation cases, the Sheriff's Department said.
The man has not yet been formally charged in the most recent investigation.
-
Indiana state senator victim of 'swatting' after Trump's redistricting criticism
Indiana State Sen. Greg Goode was targeted in a "swatting" incident Sunday evening, hours after President Donald Trump publicly criticized him over opposition to redistricting efforts.
Traffic victims honored as residents demand safer streets
Families, survivors, and local leaders gathered along Raymond Street to memorialize lives lost and call for urgent action to address one of Indianapolis’ most dangerous corridors.
'Very disappointed': Trump criticizes Indiana GOP Senators over redistricting
President Donald Trump posted a statement on Truth Social Sunday criticizing Indiana Republican state senators for blocking redistricting efforts.
Indianapolis families pack food lines as SNAP delays deepen holiday need
The Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) said SNAP recipients can expect funds to return to their EBT cards starting Sunday, Nov. 16.
