Arrested: Undercover sting operation nabs Perryville man soliciting 13-year-old girl online for sex

On July 30, the Harford County Sheriff’s Office, working in cooperation with the Harford County Child Advocacy Center, announced the arrest of 30-year-old Joshua John Brown of Perryville, Maryland, following an undercover investigation targeting the solicitation of minors online. The investigation began on July 22, when detectives, posing as a 13-year-old girl, interacted with a suspect on a social media platform.

During their online chats, the suspect, who later identified himself as a 30-year-old man named ‘John,’ repeatedly acknowledged the age difference between the two – and the illegality of his actions. Despite expressing concerns about potential consequences, ‘John’ continued to make sexually suggestive remarks and discussed the possibility of meeting. He suggested activities such as watching a movie, cuddling, and getting close, while also inquiring about the girl’s sexual history.

The suspect proposed meeting on July 26, 2024, with the intention of engaging in sexual activity, while emphasizing the need for secrecy due to the age differences.

On July 26, the suspect arrived in the area of Courtland Place in Bel Air, where plainclothes detectives observed him. Initially, he parked his vehicle behind an unmarked Harford County Sheriff’s Office patrol car. After approximately five minutes, he relocated his vehicle and parked near an alternate meeting location. Detectives maintained surveillance and confirmed the vehicle’s registration, and the sole occupant matched the suspect’s description.

As Brown attempted to leave the area, detectives conducted a traffic stop and placed him under arrest. Brown was identified through his Maryland driver’s license and positively identified as the individual who had been communicating with the undercover detectives. Brown was subsequently transported to the Harford County Detention Center where he was initially held on $5,000 bail – but has since been released after securing a bond.

The Harford County Sheriff’s Office encourages anyone who may have been victimized by Joshua John Brown or has any relevant information related to this case to come forward. Your cooperation can significantly contribute to the safety of our community and support the ongoing investigation.

Remember it is crucial to emphasize the importance of discussing online risks with your children. Encourage open and honest communication about online activities and remind them to never share personal information with strangers or agree to meet someone they have only interacted with online.

The Sheriff’s Office concluded their announcement by confirming that this investigation remains active and ongoing.

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(Source: Harford County Sheriff’s Office)

Posted by Richard Webster, Ace News Today
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