During the month of November 2024, Lincoln City Police Officers conducted several counter-child-luring operations on social media and developed probable cause to arrest three separate adults. These operations are used to investigate adults who inappropriately communicate with children. In each of these cases, Officers posed as juveniles online and were contacted by the suspect who offered or agreed to meet with the fictitious juvenile for a sexual encounter. As of today, all three cases have been brought before a Lincoln County Grand Jury, who agreed there was sufficient evidence to support the arrest and prosecution.
Nicolas Mckenna, age 34, of Otis, Oregon was arrested in Lincoln City on November 12, 2024. His charges include Luring a Minor and Online Sexual Corruption of a Child 1st Degree. His bail was set at $1,000,000.
Joseph Thomas, age 41, of Toledo, Oregon was arrested in Toledo on November 16, 2024. His charges include Luring a Minor and Online Sexual Corruption of a Child 2nd Degree. His bail was set at $250,000.
Danny Hicks, age 58, of Dallas, Oregon was arrested in Dallas on November 29, 2024. His charges include 3 counts of Luring a Minor, 2 counts of Online Sexual Corruption of a Child 2nd Degree, and Purchasing Sex with a Minor. His bail was set at $1,000,000.
LCPD was assisted by the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office - Oregon, Toledo Police and Public Safety Department - Oregon, and Dallas Oregon Police Department during these investigations.LCPD wants to encourage parents to monitor their children’s social media activity and discuss with them the possible dangers of communicating with strangers online. These investigations are conducted in an effort to reduce criminal activity and to further enhance the safety of our community.
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