Jasper County, Indiana — A LaPorte man was arrested after allegedly arranging to meet a 13-year-old juvenile.
According to the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office, deputies received a tip at approximately 5:27 p.m. CST on Sunday, March 1 alleging that 20-year-old Wyatt Wade Messer of LaPorte, Indiana had been communicating with a minor through social media.
Investigators were told Messer had allegedly been soliciting the 13-year-old for sexual activity and explicit photographs, prompting deputies to review evidence provided by the reporting party.
According to the sheriff’s office, deputies confirmed information supporting the allegations during the investigation.
Authorities said deputies later located Messer in the area where he was reportedly attempting to meet the juvenile. He was taken into custody without incident.
During the arrest, deputies also located a loaded firearm and alcohol containers inside Messer’s vehicle, officials said.
Messer has been charged with the following offenses:
- Child Solicitation — Level 4 Felony
- Unlawful Possession of a Firearm — Class A Misdemeanor
- Unlawful Possession of Alcohol by a Minor — Class C Misdemeanor
According to authorities, Messer was transported to custody following the arrest. The sheriff’s office said the investigation began after a concerned party contacted law enforcement about the alleged online communication.
All criminal charges are allegations. Messer is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
Cases involving online communication with minors continue to be a focus for investigators as social media remains a common platform for contact.
The incident may also draw attention from students and young social media users across northwest Indiana, where online safety remains an ongoing concern.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input.
All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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