By Frank Lewis
A Portsmouth man has been indicted on charges of importuning and attempted sexual battery, after being arrested in a sting operation.
Phillip A. Gammon, 42, of Rigrish Addition was indicted by the latest session of the Scioto County Grand Jury. Gammon is charged with attempting to make contact with a 13-year-old girl.
Scioto County Sheriff Marty V. Donini said his office was contacted on Oct. 11, 2015, by a parent who told authorities found some inappropriate messages from an adult male on her 13-year-old daughter’s phone.
Donini said his office filed a report and started an investigation.
During the investigation detectives were able to determine that this adult male was contacting the child through Facebook Messenger and that he wanted to meet with her. Donini said the messages became sexual in nature.
During the subsequent investigation a detective was able to take over the Facebook of the girl and message back and forth with the suspect.
The suspect messaged the child, wanting her to meet him on Oct. 26, 2015, at the Minford Park and ride between 3 p.m. and 3:30 p.m., and he reportedly told the child he had a gift for her. He also told her what type of vehicle he would be driving.
On the prearranged date and time, detectives were able to monitor that location and observe the suspect circle the parking lot several times before he pulled onto the lot at approximately 3 p.m.
Gammon was arrested without incident. Detectives later served a search warrant at his residence.
Reach Frank Lewis at 740-353-3101, ext. 1928, or on Twitter @franklewis.
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