By Staff Report
A Minnesota man is behind bars on sexual misconduct charges after an investigation that began in October 2021.
A Washington County Sheriff’s School Resource Officer received a report of inappropriate/sexual photos being exchanged between a 20-year-old male and a 14-year-old female using the social media platform Snapchat
WCSO Investigators obtained a search warrant for the involved Snapchat accounts where it was discovered the adult male was having the same types of conversations, including sexual activity, with several underage females using the outlet.
The St. Paul Police Department, who holds jurisdiction, was contacted by WCSO. The identity of the male was confirmed to be Phillip Jacob James.
On January 20, detectives from the St. Paul Police Department executed a search warrant on James’ residence.
James was arrested and is being charged by the St. Paul Police Department with solicitation of children to engage in sexual conduct and possession of pornographic work involving minors.
This is an active investigation. Additional charges are pending as the other underage females are from multiple states.
Sheriff Kevin Crews urges parents to monitor their children’s activities.
“There are several social media outlets that enable our youth to correspond with people literally around the world,” said Crews. “I urge parents to strictly monitor your child’s activities on these sites.”
If you have any knowledge of crimes being committed, or tips, contact the Washington County Sheriff’s Office at 850-638-6111. You may also contact anonymously by calling 850-638-TIPS (8477) or by email at [email protected].
Hannah Collins