Man Arrested for Online Sexual Corruption of a Child in the First Degree

Eugene Police Department

 

Rick Michael Abbott, age 59, of Springfield, agreed to meet with a juvenile female who was actually a Eugene Police Department Violent Crimes Unit detective investigating online crimes against children. Abbott had initiated contact with the ‘teen’ without any solicitation from the undercover detective. Abbott arranged to meet the juvenile at a location for sexual acts. At 1:08 p.m. on September 3, when Abbott showed up, he was met by detectives and detained without incident. He was found to be in possession of marijuana and a battery-powered sexual aid he intended to share with the child. He was lodged at Lane County Jail for Online Sexual Corruption of a Child in the First Degree. Case 21-13714

 

Detectives from the Eugene Police Department will continue to aggressively investigate online predators and hold them accountable for their actions.

 

 

Tips for Parents and Guardians:

·         Monitor your child's devices remotely and control access

·         Be aware of communications between your child and others

·         Beware of unexplained absences and behavior or sudden gifts or items they can’t afford or cash

·         Understand cyber-crime and that “no one online is anonymous”

·         If you child has a new game or app, spend time with them on it

·         Set up an area where children can use their technology with a parents presence

·         Consider not allowing your child to take a phone or computer with them into their room at night to sleep

·         Understand appropriate protocols when a child discloses issues of sexting, or sextortion. Let your child know they can report concerns to you or another trusted adult

·         Teach your child that it is o.k. to block users who make them uncomfortable

·         Understand applications such as SnapChat, TikTok, Facebook, Google Hangouts, Instagram and more

 

There are some excellent online resources for parents to use in teaching their children about online safety. A good example if from the Federal Trade Commission: Protecting Kids Online | FTC Consumer Information