KILGORE, Texas (KLTV) — Two East Texas men are in custody after being arrested during an undercover sting operation targeting online predators who solicit minors for sexual purposes.
Marshall Anthony Knapik, 27, of Longview, and Dale Edward Shelton, 33, of Tyler, have both been charged with online solicitation of a minor for sexual conduct.
According to arrest affidavits, the sting was a joint effort conducted by the Kilgore Police Department, Collin County Sheriff’s Office, and Gregg County Sheriff’s Office.
On Wednesday, an officer posing as a 14-year-old girl was contacted by Knapik. The affidavit states that Knapik complimented the undercover officer, inquired about her age and school grade, and then offered to bring alcohol and pay her in exchange for sexual acts. He arranged to meet her at what he believed was her apartment.
Knapik was located by Kilgore officers near the meeting location and was stopped and arrested during a traffic stop. He was taken to the Kilgore Municipal Jail and later transferred to the Gregg County Jail.
The following day, Shelton initiated contact with another undercover investigator, also posing as a 14-year-old girl, through Reddit. After asking her age, Shelton reportedly sent explicit images of himself and offered to meet.
Officers arrested Shelton near the location he believed to be the girl’s home. The affidavit states Shelton admitted to messaging someone he believed was 14 years old.
Both suspects were booked into the Gregg County Jail, each with a $25,000 bond.
Authorities say the sting operation is part of ongoing efforts to identify and arrest individuals who exploit children online.
