A Michigan physician has been arrested and is being brought to Port St. Lucie on charges of soliciting sexual conduct with a child, according to police officials. The case centers on allegations that the doctor used a computer to contact an undercover detective, whom he believed was a mother, in order to solicit her 5-year-old daughter for sexual activity.
Port St. Lucie Doctor Arrest: Details of the Investigation
The Port St. Lucie doctor arrest involves William J. Murdoch, 45, a family practice physician from Monroe, Michigan. Authorities say Murdoch was taken into custody by the U.S. Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force at ProMedica Monroe Regional Hospital on September 2, 2025. He faces charges of using a computer to solicit a parent to consent to sexual conduct involving a child. The arrest of the Michigan doctor in this child solicitation case has sparked widespread concern in both Michigan and Florida communities.
Monroe is located about 35 miles south of Detroit and 17 miles north of Toledo, Ohio, on the west shore of Lake Erie. Murdoch is being extradited to Port St. Lucie, Florida, where the alleged crime originated.
How the Undercover Operation Unfolded
The investigation began on June 16, 2025, when an Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force detective in Port St. Lucie initiated an undercover operation. The detective posed as a mother online, with the support of Homeland Security Investigations in both Fort Pierce and Detroit.
According to Officer Brittany Holly of the Port St. Lucie Police Department, Murdoch contacted the undercover detective, believing he was communicating with a mother. He allegedly sought a platonic relationship with the woman and also solicited her young daughter for sexual activity. This is not the only recent case of this nature; for instance, a Port St. Lucie man was arrested after soliciting a sexual relationship with a child in a separate investigation, highlighting the ongoing risks in the region.
Digital Evidence and Messaging
Investigators say Murdoch used various digital platforms to communicate his intentions. Authorities obtained subpoenas and search warrants for his iCloud and messaging accounts. These digital records, according to police, revealed conversations about grooming the child and included discussions of his medical training, conception, abortion, and the use of drugs and alcohol to cause birth defects.
Sgt. Dominick Mesiti of the Port St. Lucie Police Department stated that these conversations helped identify Murdoch and link him to the alleged crime.
Collaboration Between Agencies
The Port St. Lucie doctor arrest was the result of a coordinated effort between local and federal agencies. The Port St. Lucie Police Department worked closely with Homeland Security Investigations and the U.S. Marshals Service. The investigation involved both Florida and Michigan law enforcement teams. For more insight into how these multi-state investigations unfold, see how the PSLPD ICAC investigation led to the arrest of the Michigan doctor in this high-profile case.
Authorities used a combination of undercover work, digital forensics, and interagency cooperation to build their case. Subpoenas and search warrants played a key role in gathering evidence from multiple digital devices and accounts.
Legal Proceedings and Privacy Concerns
Police have stated that certain details of the investigation will not be released, as the detective involved was working undercover. As of September 3, 2025, no additional information was made available to the public.
The case highlights the challenges law enforcement faces in protecting children online and the importance of digital evidence in prosecuting internet crimes against children.
Similar Cases and Community Impact
Cases involving the solicitation of minors online are a significant concern for communities across Florida, including Port St. Lucie. Law enforcement agencies regularly conduct undercover operations to identify and arrest individuals seeking to exploit children on the internet.
The arrest of a licensed physician in such a case has drawn attention to the ongoing risks and the need for vigilance among parents and guardians. Community members are encouraged to report suspicious online activity to local authorities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Port St. Lucie Doctor Arrest
What are the charges in the Port St. Lucie doctor arrest?
The doctor faces charges of using a computer to solicit a parent to consent to sexual conduct involving a child. These are serious felony offenses under Florida law.
How did authorities investigate the Port St. Lucie doctor?
Police used an undercover detective posing as a mother online. They also obtained subpoenas and search warrants for the suspect’s digital accounts to collect evidence.
Are there other recent cases of child solicitation in PSL?
Port St. Lucie police and other agencies frequently conduct undercover operations to catch individuals attempting to solicit minors online. These efforts are ongoing throughout the Treasure Coast.
Can you report suspected online child exploitation in Port St. Lucie?
Yes, residents can report suspicious activity to the Port St. Lucie Police Department or through national hotlines dedicated to internet crimes against children.
Where are internet crimes against children investigated in St. Lucie County?
Internet crimes against children are investigated by specialized detectives in the Port St. Lucie Police Department, often in collaboration with federal agencies like Homeland Security Investigations.
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