Bellville police say a Sunday evening arrest capped weeks of work tracking a man accused of using social media to contact underage girls and try to set up in-person sexual encounters. Officers took Anthony Phearse into custody at about 6:45 p.m., and he is charged with two counts of online solicitation of a minor. Investigators say the probe began in May and remains ongoing.
Investigation timeline and arrest
According to investigators, the case opened in May after Bellville officers received information that a man was reaching out to underage females through social media apps. Detectives gathered evidence and presented it to the Austin County District Attorney’s Office on June 8, where arrest warrants were issued. Officers then located Phearse in Bellville and arrested him at approximately 6:45 p.m. The sequence of events and the department’s public statement were reported by KBTX, which noted that the case is still active.
What the charge means under Texas law
Phearse is booked on two counts of online solicitation of a minor. Under Texas Penal Code Section 33.021, knowingly soliciting a minor to meet for sexual contact is classified as a felony, as outlined in the Texas Penal Code. A second-degree felony conviction under this statute can carry a prison term ranging from two to 20 years, according to legal summaries of the law.
Broader enforcement efforts
State and local agencies across Texas have been ramping up enforcement against people who try to target minors online. In early May, the Texas Department of Public Safety detailed a multi day operation in Bell County that resulted in 11 arrests, highlighting a broader push by DPS and local partners to disrupt online enticement and human trafficking efforts. More information is available in the Texas Department of Public Safety release.
How to report and where to find help
Bellville police say their investigation into the case is ongoing and, as reported by KBTX, they are asking anyone with information to contact law enforcement. If you or someone you know may have been targeted online, the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children operates the CyberTipline, which allows the public to report suspected online enticement and exploitation. The CyberTipline can be accessed online or by calling 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678); see NCMEC for details. The FBI also offers guidance for parents and caregivers on recognizing risks, reporting concerns, and helping keep kids safer online.
