Sidney man accused of trying to lure 13-year-old Florida girl to live with him

Credit: SHELBY COUNTY JAIL

Credit: SHELBY COUNTY JAIL

A 52-year-old Sidney man accused of trying to lure a 13-year-old Florida girl to come and live with him was arrested Wednesday, according to police.

Steven Knoop was charged with disseminating matter harmful to juveniles and drug abuse.

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Sidney police and the Internet Crimes Against Children task force began investigating Knoop after the ICAC was contacted by the girl’s parents when the found messages between the teen and Knoop.

He reportedly began texting the teen around August and September.

Throughout the course of the texts, Knoop began “grooming communication,” sent “nudity-oriented” photos and discussed getting the girl an airplane ticket for her to come to Sidney and live with him, said police.

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A search warrant was executed at Knoop’s East Avenue home Wednesday morning.

Police recovered computers, smart phone devices and marijuana during the search.

Knoop was arrested and is being held in the Shelby County Jail.

Additional charges may be filed as police continue their investigation.

Police ask that anyone with information about this incident call 937-498-2351 or Crime Stoppers at 937-492-8477 (TIPS).

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