BUCKHANNON — A Buckhannon man was arrested after police investigated an allegation that he engaged in sexually explicit conversations with a person believed to be a 14-year-old girl, according to the Buckhannon Police Department.
Richard Wood was arrested on charges of soliciting a minor via computer and attempted use of minors in filming sexually explicit conduct, police said in an Oct. 4 statement.
According to police, the investigation began after the department received a tip from Niky Sal alleging that Wood was engaging in sexually explicit conversations with a juvenile. Pfc. J. Warner investigated the allegation and later arrested Wood, police said.
“Mr. Wood thought it would be a great idea to reach out and talk to juveniles via cellphone/computer,” the department said in its statement.
Wood is being held at Tygart Valley Regional Jail, according to police.
Buckhannon police thanked the West Virginia State Police, Sal and Oklahoma Predator Prevention for their assistance with the investigation.
The department also issued a warning to parents and guardians about monitoring children’s electronic communications.
“Parents and Guardians, please do not hesitate to go through your child’s phone/computer/Xbox/iPad or any other electronic device to see who they are communicating with,” police said.
“If you suspect any kind of harm being done to your child please call 911. Officers can get on top of the situation before it’s too late!” the department said.
Under the law, Wood is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
