CHESHIRE, CT — A Pennsylvania man is accused of trying to entice a 12-year-old child in Cheshire, according to police.
Police responded on Dec. 29 to a complaint from a resident regarding inappropriate text messages that were found on their 12-year-old’s cellphone.
The messages were reportedly exchanged between the child and an unknown 23-year-old man and included “explicit photographs,” according to police.
Police said Det. Sam DeCapua, with assistance from the FBI New Haven Office Crimes Against Children Task Force, conducted an investigation that involved forensic analysis of electronic devices and subpoenas.
Kenneth Rice, 23, of Pennsylvania, was identified as the suspect, according to police.
Police said Rice voluntarily turned himself in on an arrest warrant at Cheshire Police Headquarters on May 7.
Rice was charged with risk of injury to a child and enticing a minor. He was held in lieu of a $100,000 bond before being taken to Meriden Superior Court.
Cheshire police are reminding parents and guardians “about the importance of monitoring children’s online activity and maintaining open communication about internet safety.”
“Many online platforms, including gaming systems, social media applications, and messaging services, allow strangers direct access to children,” police wrote. “Offenders often attempt to build trust with minors before engaging in manipulation, threats, or requests for explicit content.”
Read more from the police department below:
Parents are encouraged to:
These predators exist across every socioeconomic background and community. They are persistent, manipulative, and actively seek opportunities to exploit children online. As parents and guardians, vigilance, communication, and awareness remain some of the most effective tools in protecting children from online exploitation.
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