Kentucky Police Arrest Michigan Man for Child Solicitation Charges

News Summary

Dequindre Wiggins, a 26-year-old man from Michigan, was arrested in Fayette County, Kentucky, after being wanted for serious charges of soliciting a minor. His apprehension followed a parent’s report of inappropriate contact with their child, leading to an investigation that uncovered further alarming online interactions with juveniles. Wiggins is now in custody at the Fayette County Detention Center while he awaits extradition to Michigan to face multiple charges, including using a computer to commit a crime.

Lexington, Kentucky – A 26-year-old man wanted in Michigan for serious charges has been apprehended in Fayette County, Kentucky. Dequindre Wiggins was arrested after law enforcement responded to a reported incident involving inappropriate contact with a minor.

Wiggins is facing multiple charges stemming from his alleged actions in Kent County, Michigan, where he is accused of accosting, enticing, or soliciting a child for immoral purposes. Additionally, he is charged with using a computer to commit a crime. His arrest comes a few weeks after a parent reported an alarming interaction between Wiggins and their child on May 9.

Following the report, an investigation led authorities to discover that Wiggins had contact with several other juveniles online. As a result of these findings, a nationwide arrest warrant was issued for him by the Kent County Prosecutor’s Office on May 21.

On June 2, the Lexington Police Department utilized its Real-Time Intelligence Center and Flock license plate reader system, which enabled them to track Wiggins’ vehicle. He was located in the parking lot of the Tru by Hilton University Medical Center on Waller Avenue in Lexington. He is currently being held at the Fayette County Detention Center, where he has waived extradition.

The Kent County Sheriff’s Office expressed gratitude towards the City of Lexington Police Department for their assistance in the case, which underscores the cooperation between law enforcement in different jurisdictions.

Investigation Details

The investigation into Wiggins began when a concerned parent reported inappropriate contact between him and their child. This initial complaint was critical in prompting further scrutiny of Wiggins’ activities with minors, leading investigators to discover additional online interactions that raised alarm.

The charges Wiggins faces are serious. Accosting, enticing, or soliciting a child for immoral purposes refers to behaviors that are intended to engage a minor in sexual activity or exploitation. The charge of using a computer to commit a crime indicates that Wiggins allegedly utilized technology or the internet to facilitate these illicit actions.

Legal Process and Next Steps

As Wiggins awaits legal proceedings in Kentucky, authorities in Michigan are preparing to pursue the case once he is extradited back to his home state. It is essential to note that all suspects are charged based on initial evidence, which has yet to be proven in court. This means that Wiggins, like all individuals accused of crimes, is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

The situation serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance among parents and guardians regarding their children’s interactions, both in-person and online. The cooperative efforts of law enforcement agencies demonstrate the commitment to protecting children and ensuring that individuals accused of targeting them are brought to justice.

Community Impact

The arrest of Wiggins has raised concerns within the Grand Rapids community, where he previously worked as a social worker at Valleywood Middle School. The implications of such charges against a person in a position of trust and authority are significant and have understandably disturbed parents and educators alike.

Law enforcement’s swift action illustrates dedication to safety and the resolution of crimes against youth. As the investigation progresses, further details may emerge, which could provide additional insights into the extent of Wiggins’ alleged offenses and the safety measures that might be necessary to protect other children.

The community is encouraged to remain alert and report any suspicious activities involving minors to the authorities. Together, awareness and proactive response can play critical roles in safeguarding the youth.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Lexington Man Arrested for Child Solicitation

Additional Resources

• LEX18
• Wikipedia: Child Solicitation
• WKYT
• Google Search: Dequindre Wiggins
• CBS News Detroit
• Google Scholar: Child Solicitation Law
• Kentucky.com
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Child Abuse