A Hatfield man has been arrested after he allegedly solicited sex from a 13-year-old girl online, only to discover that it was actually an undercover police officer.
Sachin Kumar Shetty, 28, of the 2500 block of Jean Drive, has been charged with felony counts of criminal attempt - statutory sexual assault, criminal solicitation – statutory sexual assault, unlawful contact with a minor – sexual offenses, criminal use of a communication facility and criminal attempt – corruption of minors, as well as misdemeanor counts of criminal attempt – indecent assault of a person less than 16-years-old and criminal solicitation – indecent assault of a person less than 16-years-old, in connection with an investigation by the Ridley Township Police Department.
According to a release by the Delaware County District Attorney’s Office, Shetty messaged an undercover officer that was posing as a 13-year-old girl on April 6, stating that he could pick up the girl to have sex. Shetty, who told the girl that he was 25-years-old, allegedly told the girl “I’m ready to lose my virginity to you,” according to the release.
When Shetty arrived at the agreed upon location later that afternoon, he was taken into custody by police, according to the release.
“This undercover operation is a reminder to parents and community members how important it is to talk with their children, monitor internet use, and report any suspicious activity to our ICAC Task Force,” said Delaware County District Attorney Katayoun Copeland. “I would like to commend our ICAC Task Force members and its various law enforcement partners for their continued work in locating and apprehending these perpetrators.”
Shetty was arraigned on April 7 by Magisterial District
Judge Leonard Tenaglia, who set bail at 10 percent of $100,000 cash. Shetty was
then remanded to Delaware County jail after failing to post bail, but bail was later reduced to 10 percent of $50,000 cash on April 16, at which time it was posted
and Shetty was released.
His next court appearance is a formal arraignment at the Delaware County
Courthouse on May 15 at 8 a.m.
(Editor's note: All suspects and defendants are innocent until proven guilty. Should the defendant choose to issue a public statement, or is later found not guilty or has the charges dropped, we will update this article accordingly.)
See also:
Woman Arrested After Scamming Victim On Facebook Marketplace: Police
Telford Man Charged With Aggravated Indecent Assault Of A Child
Additional Charges Filed Against Tech School Teacher, After Third Victim Comes Forward
Towamencin Man Charged With Aggravated Assault Of Police Officer
Violent Home Invasion Leaves One Injured In Hilltown
