LIMESTONE COUNTY, Ala. (WHNT) — The Limestone County Sheriff’s Office says a man was arrested Sunday for attempting to solicit a child online.
LCSO said on Sept. 14, around 1:45 a.m., deputies were alerted to a report that an adult had attempted to solicit sex from a child under the age of 12.
Authorities said the child immediately told their parents, who contacted the sheriff’s office. LCSO said investigators reviewed social media messages sent by the suspect.
The sheriff’s office said the man was later identified as Bobby Joe Raney, 65, of Athens. Authorities said after he was located, Raney “admitted to his actions and expressed remorse.”
Jail records show that Raney was arrested on Sept. 21 and charged with electronic solicitation of a child.
“While this case was not part of our Millstone Project, it underscores why that work is so critical. The offender in this case knew the victim and used social media to attempt exploitation,” Sheriff Joshua McLaughlin said. “Parents, let this serve as an example of how to respond in dangerous situations. This child acted bravely by immediately telling a parent, and the parent wasted no time contacting law enforcement. Because of their quick actions, deputies and investigators were able to resolve this case safely and swiftly. I commend this family and our deputies and investigators for their courage and dedication.”
LCSO said investigators believed Raney may have contacted other people in the community. The sheriff’s office said parents are strongly urged to remain vigilant in monitoring their child’s devices and social media accounts. Anyone with information about Raney, or who suspects their child has been approached by him or another individual in a similar manner, is asked to contact Investigator Kandace Wilson immediately.
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