Charleston Man Arrested in Teen Prostitution Sting Operation
In a teenage prostitution investigation, Bryan Christopher Smith, a 50-year-old resident of Charleston, has been arrested and charged. The Charleston County Sheriff’s Office reported Tuesday that Smith attempted to pay for sexual intercourse with a minor. Smith now faces several charges, including two counts of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender in the 1st Offense and one count of Participation in Prostitution of a Minor.
The Sting Operation
The Internet Crimes Against Children task force, operated by the South Carolina Police Department, led the operation that resulted in Smith’s arrest. According to an official statement, the arrest was made on Tuesday following a sting operation where Smith was caught interacting through an online chat room. He allegedly communicated with an individual who posed as the father of a 13-year-old girl. Smith reportedly offered to pay $100 in exchange for sexual activities with the minor. The conversation allegedly took place on July 25, 2023.
Evidence Recovered
Furthermore, on Tuesday, a search warrant was executed at Smith’s residence. This action resulted in the police securing evidence supporting the charges. An affidavit stated that Smith confessed to using two popular online chat applications, Whisper and Snapchat, for his illicit activities.
Bail and Consequences
Following his arrest, Smith was granted release on a sum of $29,250 in surety bonds. If convicted, the charges he faces will add considerably to the tough penalties already associated with sex crime laws. A conviction for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender in the 1st Offense carries mandatory jail time in South Carolina, whereas Participation in Prostitution of a Minor is a highly serious crime and brings significant consequences including jail time and registration as a sex offender.
This ongoing investigation reiterates the commitment of law enforcement agencies to combat sex crimes, especially those involving minors. The case also highlights the instrumental role of internet sting operations in catching offenders. It poses as a stark reminder of the importance of internet safety and monitoring online activities, especially in households with minors.
The case continues to unfold, with court proceedings expected to commence soon. Keep following HERE News for regular updates on this case.
