A Rochester Hills man has been charged with allegedly using Instagram to engage in sexual activity with a 15-year-old, according to local authorities. Valor James Harrison, 22, stands accused of third-degree criminal sexual conduct and accosting a child for immoral purposes. CBS News Detroit reported that the arraignment took place yesterday, with Harrison currently held on a $100,000 bond at the Wayne County Jail.
Starting in July, the interaction between Harrison and the victim unfolded, as ClickOnDetroit details that Harrison allegedly contacted the minor through the social media platform. After that, he met the teenager to engage in the alleged sexual conduct. Authorities, after having arrested Harrison on Tuesday, expressed concerns over his past, stating he has a history of sexually inappropriate behavior.
Northville Township and Canton Township detectives conducted the investigation that led to Harrison's arrest. WXYZ reported that Lieutenant Patrick Reinke of the Northville Township Police described how social media's growing popularity has made it easier for individuals to exploit children. Harrison had previously pleaded no contest to criminal sexual conduct in a separate incident involving a Michigan State University student, according to The State News, as obtained by WXYZ.
Police are now urging anyone with potential information to reach out. In response to these incidents, Chris McKenna, founder of Protect Young Eyes, underscored the importance of parental communication about social media safety, with McKenna revealing that frequent conversations should be dripped into all the time.
Valor Harrison is due to appear in court again for a probable cause conference on Sept. 5, followed by a preliminary examination on Sept. 12. Northville Township Police encourage anyone who believes they or their child may have come into contact with Harrison to call the Northville Township Police Detective Bureau at (248) 349-9400 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-Speak-Up.
