A Boynton Beach Police Department detective posing as a teenager on a messaging app led to the arrest of a local man accused of soliciting a minor for sexual conduct, according to the Boynton Beach Police Department.

Boynton Beach Detective Uses Messaging App in Undercover Operation

The Boynton Beach Police Department (BBPD) reported that an undercover detective created a profile on the messaging app MeetMe, posing as a 15-year-old. The operation was designed to identify and apprehend individuals attempting to solicit minors online. Similar undercover stings have resulted in arrests, such as when officers arrested a sex offender in an undercover sting in Boynton Beach.

According to a preliminary BBPD report, the detective was contacted by a man later identified as Jesse Jacobs, 48, of Boynton Beach. Officers stated that Jacobs initiated a conversation with the undercover profile and quickly became aware of the fictitious age.

Details of the Online Communication

Police stated that during the messaging exchange, Jacobs acknowledged the age of the person he believed to be a minor. According to official sources, Jacobs solicited the undercover detective for sex and requested nude photographs.

BBPD reported that Jacobs asked to meet the minor after school and inquired about the child’s foster parents. Troopers said that Jacobs suggested picking up the minor and bringing her to his home, rather than meeting at a hotel as initially discussed.

Arranged Meeting and Police Response

The undercover detective arranged a meeting with Jacobs at the Nova hotel in Boynton Beach. However, police say Jacobs changed plans, stating he would pick up the minor and take her to his residence instead. In a similar case, a Michigan doctor was arrested by Port St. Lucie Police for child solicitation after online communication with an undercover officer.

According to BBPD, officers made contact with Jacobs at his home at approximately 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday. Police reported that Jacobs admitted to communicating with the person he believed was a 15-year-old girl. He told officers he was not planning to meet at the hotel because he knew it was wrong, according to the official report.

Charges Filed Against Jesse Jacobs

After reviewing the evidence, the Boynton Beach Police Department stated they found probable cause to arrest Jacobs. According to BBPD, he was booked on charges of soliciting a minor to engage in sexual conduct and unlawful use of a two-way communications device. Other incidents in the region include when a Port St. Lucie man was arrested for soliciting a sexual relationship with a child following an investigation.

Police confirmed that Jacobs was transported to the Palm Beach County Jail following his arrest. The investigation remains ongoing, and details may be updated as new information becomes available.

Official Sources and Ongoing Investigation

All information in this article is based on a preliminary report from the Boynton Beach Police Department. Police emphasized that further updates may follow as the investigation continues.

For more details, readers can refer directly to the official Boynton Beach Police Department website.

Frequently Asked Questions About Boynton Beach Detective Posing as Teen

What happened in the Boynton Beach detective posing as teen case?

According to the Boynton Beach Police Department, an undercover detective posed as a 15-year-old on a messaging app and was contacted by a local man who allegedly solicited the minor for sexual conduct. The man was arrested after police gathered evidence of the online communication.

How did the Boynton Beach detective catch the accused predator?

The detective used a fake profile on the MeetMe app to communicate with the suspect. Police arranged a meeting and arrested the man after confirming he solicited the minor, according to official sources.

Are there similar undercover operations in Boynton Beach?

Boynton Beach Police and other law enforcement agencies sometimes conduct undercover operations online to catch individuals attempting to solicit minors. These efforts are ongoing to protect children in the area.

Can you report suspicious online activity to Boynton Beach Police?

Yes, anyone who suspects illegal online activity or inappropriate contact with minors should contact the Boynton Beach Police Department. Reports can be made through their official website or by calling their non-emergency number.

Where are official updates about this case posted?

Official updates and news releases about this and similar cases are posted on the Boynton Beach Police Department’s website and social media channels. Details may change as investigations continue.

Port St Lucie Talks