Authorities say a Johnstown area man is facing charges after he allegedly sent numerous sexually explicit photos and messages to someone whom he believed to be a teenage girl.
According to the affidavit, Trey Shank, now age 26, is alleged to have sent the messages, in November, to members of the online group 814 Pred Hunters who were reportedly posing as a 15-year-old girl.
Police say the group reportedly shared the messages, which were sent via the app Meetme, with investigators.
Authorities say when they questioned Shank about the messages, he allegedly admitted to being aware that the “supposed” victim was underage.
Police say Shank reportedly told officers that he “was being stupid and he felt bad about what he did.”
Authorities noted that Shank’s phone also confirmed the messages and explicit photos/videos that were sent.
According to online court records, Shank faces multiple felonies including attempted statutory sexual assault, criminal solicitation, attempted unlawful contact with a minor and criminal use of a communication device.
He has since been released on unsecured bail.