VOLUSIA COUNTY, FL – A 32-year-old Port Orange man has been arrested on charges of attempting to lure a child into sexual activity, and sheriff’s detectives want to know if he has tried to solicit any other victims. According to authorities, Terrance Hughes was arrested Thursday on a warrant following a two-month investigation.
Volusia sheriff’s detectives began the investigation in April after the victim’s mother conducted a routine check her of her teenage daughter’s cell phone and discovered Hughes’ sexual messages to her daughter, along with multiple attempts to meet her in person, with what authorities say was an ‘intent to have sex.’
The victim told detectives she met Hughes on Snapchat and did not know his name or how old he was. During the investigation, an undercover detective assumed the victim’s communications with Hughes. During a text conversation, the detective and Hughes discussed sexual activity – initiated by Hughes – and their age differences. The detective made several comments revealing the age of the victim being 15 years old.
Detectives say Hughes also made several comments about wanting to meet, while encouraging the 15 years old to send sexually explicit images of herself. He was identified after he sent two photos of himself to the victim’s phone. Based on the investigation, a warrant for Hughes’ arrest was issued this week.
On Thursday morning, he was arrested at home and transported to the Volusia County Branch Jail. He is charged with soliciting a child or person believed to be a child for unlawful sexual conduct and use of a two-way communication device. He was released after posting $50,000 bond.
Anyone who has information about any additional victims is asked to contact the Sheriff’s Office’s Child Exploitation Unit at 386-323-3574. As happened in this case, parents and guardians are encouraged to keep close watch on their children’s online activities to ensure their safety. Several resources are available on the VSO website. The Sheriff’s Office also partners with OffenderWatch, an app available for download.
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