Memphis Felon Charged with Soliciting Sex from 10-year-old Girl at Summer Church Camp
MEMPHIS, Tenn. – A convicted felon has been arrested and charged for allegedly soliciting sexual exploitation of a minor. The 36-year-old man, identified as John Oher, is known to have previously been convicted of robbery in 2011 and dealing cocaine in 2010. He reportedly encountered his 10-year-old victim during a summer church camp, which name has not been disclosed.
Allegations and Finding of Evidence
On June 21, Memphis Police Department received an exploitation complaint from an informer, whose identity has been protected. This person divulged that Oher had been inappropriately texting and sending explicit images to the young girl. His actions allegedly included sending the child messages saying he “loved her” and was asking her to keep their conversation a secret.
Records indicate that the child courageously told the informant who later posed as the child to continue communication with Oher and gather evidence. It was during this string of doom that Oher allegedly sent a sexually explicit image of himself, urging the recipient – who he believed was the 10-year-old girl – that they needed to be “slick” about their conversations as, in his words, “he was older, but clever.”
Oher’s Confession
When told of the evidence against him, Oher predictably admitted to his actions. He confessed to the police about sending explicit images and messages, and asking for pictures of the girl. It is reported that he expressed his desire to be alone with her at summer camp and to be able to kiss her all day.
Frighteningly, during his confession, Oher revealed he had also asked other children at the camp for their numbers. His intentions, given the recent complaint, can only be speculated about at this point.
Awaiting Court Date
Oher could face severe penalties if found guilty as charged, including a considerable jail time. As for now, he is being held on a $175,000 bond and is expected to appear in court Tuesday morning.
A grave reminder of the need for constant vigilance, this case has shaken the Memphis community. Parents, guardians, and institutions must be ever alert to protect their children from such horrifying and predatory actions. Vigilant adults in the life of a child become the first line of defense against such unacceptable incidents. This deplorable act has been stopped in its tracks, and justice will be pursued to its full extent.
