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.
-
IPS hosts summer resource fair to help families keep kids active and engaged
IPS families gathered Saturday at Shepherd Community Center to connect with programs and resources aimed at helping students stay safe, active and engaged during the summer months
INDOT begins Rockville Road construction project: What drivers need to know
The project, called "Modern Rockville Road," will add a third lane in each direction along a busy stretch of the road.
Bloomington plans safety overhaul for Indiana Ave, seeks resident input
City leaders in Bloomington are asking for public feedback on a new redesign for Indiana Avenue. They hope to make the area safer for all road users following a number of incidents.
Homeless to state champion: Lawrence North wrestler goes undefeated
Michael White, 17, capped an undefeated season by winning the IHSAA state championship. He's the first wrestler at Lawrence North High School to earn the title in more than a decade