Man drove hours to meet underage female for sexual reasons, deputies say

LIVINGSTON PARISH, La. (WAFB) - A man has been locked up after he allegedly drove hours to meet up with an underage female for sexual reasons, deputies said.

The man, Nicholas Tate, 21, is behind bars on charges of computer aided solicitation of a juvenile and indecent behavior with a juvenile.

According to the Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office, the investigation began when deputies responded to a report of a suspicious vehicle at a closed bank in Watson. Deputies located Tate inside the vehicle.

Investigators said they began looking into Tate and learned he met the 16-year-old female on social media.

According to LPSO, the suspect made plans to see the female in person and drove from Alexandria for the encounter.

Tate was booked into the Livingston Parish Detention Center.

Livingston Parish Sheriff Jason Ard is reminding parents to watch out for dangers lurking online.

“This case is a stark reminder that there are predators on the internet seeking out our children,” Sheriff Ard said. “It’s important to monitor the social media platforms that our children are spending so much time on.”

Authorities released the following tips that parents can use to protect children:

• Know your children
• Set boundaries/rules on the internet
• Set parental guidelines on apps
• Do integrity checks on your child’s internet use
• Encourage communication about internet activities
• Explain to children the difference between online versus the real world
• Be in your kids’ business

LPSO’s Internet Crimes Against Children team can hold presentations to highlight the dangers of the internet and provide information about protecting young people. To schedule a presentation with a group, you can call the number (225) 435-1365.

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