On March 26, 2024, U.S. District Judge Phillip M. Halpern sentenced Brian Reed to 15 years in prison for trying to entice a minor to have sexual relations with him. Reed's sentencing is the result of his guilty plea from October 23, 2023.

This conviction and sentence is partially due to Reed's criminal history. But it's also the result of the ease with which the Internet can be used to catch individuals looking for sex with minors. All of this means that if you've been charged or are under investigation by police for online solicitation, you should contact the Lento Law Firm's Criminal Defense Team immediately. Set up a consultation by using our online contact form or by calling us at 888-535-3686.

Brian Reed's History of Improper Contact With Minors

One reason the judge sentenced Reed to 15 years in prison for trying to have sex with a minor is because of his prior conviction. Specifically, the Morris County Superior Court convicted Reed in 2016 of endangering the welfare of a child through sexual conduct. Because of this conviction, the court sentenced Reed to three years in prison. He also had to register as a sex offender.

Breed Reed Tries Again to Have Sex With a Minor

An investigator for the Rockland County District Attorney's Office began working undercover by pretending to be a 13-year-old girl online. On May 26, 2022, the investigator started communicating with Reed through text messages. During these conversations, the investigator told Reed she was 13 years old, and Reed asked for sexually explicit photos and to meet the investigator for sex.

Before setting up the meeting, the investigator asked Reed to confirm he was okay with her age, and he said, “Yes, of course.”

Later that day, Reed drove from New Jersey to Rockland County to have sex with the purported 13-year-old. After arriving at the arranged meeting location, he was arrested.

Online Platforms Make It Easier to Catch Adults

With social media and the Internet practically available to everyone and anyone, it's easier for adults to try and have sex with minors. It's also easier for law enforcement to set up individuals who might seek sexual contact with minors.

If you find yourself under investigation or arrest because of online contact with a minor, contact the Lento Law Firm as soon as you can. Our knowledgeable Criminal Defense Team has years of experience defending individuals from criminal prosecution when arrested or charged with online solicitation of a minor. We can review the facts of your case and help you get through the investigation or prosecutorial process with the best possible outcome. You can set up a consultation using our online contact form or by calling us at 888-535-3686.