Background

PUNXSUTAWNEY — Punxsutawney Borough Police have recently apprehended David Alan Huey, a 25-year-old resident of Punxsutawney, Jefferson County. He stands accused of sending sexually explicit messages and photos to an individual he believed to be a minor, but who was actually an online decoy.

The Charges

David Alan Huey has been charged with multiple offenses, including one count of criminal use of a communication facility, a third-degree felony; one count of criminal attempt – indecent assault of a person under 16 years of age, a second-degree misdemeanor; one count of criminal attempt – corruption of minors – defendant age 18 or above, a first-degree felony; and one count of criminal attempt – statutory sexual assault: 11 years older, a first-degree felony. These charges were filed at Magisterial District Judge Jacqueline J. Mizerock’s office on January 2.

The Investigation

An affidavit of probable cause reveals that the Punxsutawney Borough Police received a request to contact the 814 PredHunters group, an organization that employs fake online personas to expose individuals seeking to engage in sexual activities with minors. It was reported that David Alan Huey had been communicating with a purported 14-year-old girl, when in fact, he was conversing with an adult decoy. Throughout their conversation, Huey allegedly expressed his desire to meet the minor and engage in sexual acts with her.

The Incriminating Evidence

Evidence presented in the form of text messages exchanged between Huey and the decoy revealed his explicit requests and intentions. On December 19, he made inappropriate remarks and requested a photo of the decoy’s breasts, subsequently sending sexually explicit content. Over the course of several days, Huey persistently asked for explicit photos from the decoy while continuing to send sexually explicit messages.

Failed Meeting and Arrest

Huey repeatedly attempted to arrange a physical meeting with the decoy, suggesting visits to each other’s residences. However, on December 31, when the meeting was scheduled to take place in Punxsutawney, Huey failed to appear. As a result, the police visited his residence, took him into custody, and brought him in for questioning.

The Apology

During the interview, Huey expressed remorse for his actions and acknowledged the potential harm he may have caused to a minor. He admitted to engaging in conversation and attempting to meet up with an individual he believed to be underage. Despite the revelation that the decoy was not a real minor, Huey remained apologetic for his behavior.

Legal Proceedings

David Alan Huey’s preliminary hearing is scheduled for January 24 at Magisterial District Judge Jacqueline J. Mizerock’s office. Currently, he is being held at the Jefferson County Jail, with bail set at $50,000.