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.
-
Court Docs: Judge shooting tied to gang members' alleged plot to stop trial
A Tippecanoe County judge and his wife were shot last weekend in what court documents describe as an alleged gang plot to prevent an upcoming trial.
Winter weather guide: warming centers, snow crews and utilities ready for storm
Get prepared for weekend winter storm with warming center locations, INDOT snow updates, AES and Duke utility guidance and safety tips.
Fernando Mendoza declares for 2026 NFL draft on LinkedIn
The Championship QB has updated his resume. In a playful nod to LinkedIn's career-focused platform, Mendoza joked that his status is now "#opentowork" as he prepares for the NFL Draft.Devour Indy Winterfest attracts diners during cold, winter months
The citywide dining experience features over 100 local restaurants, including Gather 22. They’re really leaning into the cold weather theme — they’ve transformed their veranda into an après-ski lodge.