Randolph County, NC-- Students in Randolph County Sheriff's Academy got real life lessons during class on Friday about internet safety.
Detectives were showing the students the dangers of online predators and how the investigations take place, when suddenly an unknown man started chatting with an officer. The officer replied to the email and the suspect thought he was chatting with a 14 year-ole girl in Randolph County.
Detectives said the conversation became sexual nature, and the man solicited the 'teenager' for sex. Officers said the man then stated that he wanted to meet in real life and arranged a meeting for a couple of hours later. He stated that he had to drive from China Grove, NC.
The Deputies (members of the School Resource division, Vice/Narcotics, Patrol, and ICAC members were available at the training center and arranged a safe setting (with no students involved) to stage for the suspects arrival and place officers including an undercover female Deputy in place.
The suspect, identified as Michael Ray Hager, arrived at the designated time and tried to run from officers, but was captured after a brief chase.
Investigators and students were surprised that the situation arose as quickly as it did, and with as many seasoned deputies available to handle the situation on such short notice. All involved felt it was very successful and of course a great lesson learned.
No students were ever involved in the chatting or the meeting.
The Junior Sheriff's Academy, a program by Sheriff Maynard B. Reid Jr., of which the students are comprised of teens aged 13-15, who receive training and instruction on various topics in the Law Enforcement field from seasoned and well trained officers.
WFMY News 2/Randolph Co Sheriff's Ofc