A Michigan man was arrested after Port St. Lucie Police Department say he solicited an undercover detective for a sexual relationship with a 5-year-old child. The case highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement in Port St. Lucie to combat Internet Crimes Against Children, similar to major child pornography investigations in the area.
Port St. Lucie Police Arrest Michigan Man in Child Solicitation Case
Port St. Lucie authorities announced the arrest of William J. Murdoch, a Michigan resident, following an undercover investigation into child exploitation. The main keyword, Port St. Lucie, appears in this section to reinforce topical relevance for search engines.
Police report that Murdoch was taken into custody in Michigan on September 2, 2025, by the U.S. Marshals Service. He faces charges related to soliciting a parent for sexual conduct involving a minor.
Details of the Undercover Investigation in Port St. Lucie
According to Sgt. Dominick Mesiti, spokesperson for the Port St. Lucie Police Department, the investigation began in June 2025. An Internet Crimes Against Children detective was working undercover, posing as the mother of a young child.
During online conversations, Murdoch expressed interest in forming a platonic relationship with the “mother” and requested permission to have a sexual relationship with her 5-year-old child. The detective documented these exchanges as evidence, a tactic often used in other child exploitation arrests in Port St. Lucie.
Evidence Found in Digital Communications
Investigators discovered additional conversations on Murdoch’s iCloud and messaging accounts. These records revealed further discussions about his intentions and disturbing plans to groom the child.
Police also found evidence that Murdoch discussed topics such as conception, full-term abortions, and the use of drugs and alcohol to intentionally cause birth defects. These conversations were part of the digital evidence supporting the charges.
Charges and Legal Process Following Port St. Lucie Investigation
Murdoch was served with an arrest warrant charging him with soliciting a parent to consent to sexual conduct involving a child. Port St. Lucie Police coordinated with the U.S. Marshals Service to apprehend him in Michigan.
Authorities stated that Murdoch will be extradited to Florida to face charges in St. Lucie County. The investigation remains ongoing, and no further information was released as of September 2, 2025. This case follows a pattern seen in other incidents where a Port St. Lucie resident faces serious child pornography charges after digital evidence is uncovered.
Law Enforcement Efforts in Port St. Lucie
The Port St. Lucie Police Department continues to prioritize internet crimes against children. Undercover operations and digital forensics play a critical role in identifying and arresting suspects engaged in child exploitation.
Officials encourage anyone with information about similar crimes in Port St. Lucie or the Treasure Coast to contact local law enforcement or the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children.
Frequently Asked Questions About Port St. Lucie Child Solicitation Arrest
What led to the arrest in the Port St. Lucie child solicitation case?
The arrest followed an undercover investigation by a Port St. Lucie detective posing as a parent online. The suspect made explicit requests regarding a child, leading to his apprehension.
How do Port St. Lucie police investigate internet crimes against children?
Port St. Lucie police use undercover detectives and digital evidence to identify and arrest individuals attempting to exploit minors online. They work with agencies like the U.S. Marshals Service for interstate cases.
Are there resources for reporting child exploitation in PSL?
Yes, residents of Port St. Lucie can report suspected child exploitation to the local police department or through national hotlines dedicated to child safety.
Can you find updates about child crime cases in Port St. Lucie?
Updates on child crime cases in Port St. Lucie are available through official police press releases, local news outlets, and the city’s police department website.
Where are most internet crimes against children investigated in St. Lucie County?
Most internet crimes against children in St. Lucie County are investigated by specialized units within the Port St. Lucie Police Department and other local law enforcement agencies.
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