Winnipeg Police say a 22-year-old male is in custody after he allegedly sexually assaulted a 13-year-old female multiple times in April of this year.
According to investigators the teen had been chatting online with an American male from Rhode Island since January 2019. Police say the communication involved grooming and subtle intimidation against the victim.
In late April the suspect flew to Winnipeg spending four days here. He met the girl in person and according to investigators sexually assaulted her several times.
After the suspect returned to the United States he continued to attempt to contact the victim via the internet.
Winnipeg Police began an investigation after being contacted by the victim’s mother in June of 2019.
Investigators were able to identify the suspect and with the cooperation of the Rhode Island State Police and the Department of Homeland Security the suspect was arrested.
Herbert J. Rodas is facing charges for his alleged involvement of transferring obscene material to a minor, enticement of a minor to engage in illicit sexual activity, and traveling in interstate or foreign commerce with intent to engage in illicit sexual activity.
© News4.ca 2020
