MONTPELIER — A man was arrested in connection with the sexual exploitation of a minor, according to local police.
The Montpelier Police Department reported receiving a complaint on May 1, involving a 15-year-old girl who had been inappropriately contacted via social media by a male coworker identified as Reis Winkeljohn, 27.
According to the investigation, Winkeljohn sent explicit pictures of himself to the minor and coerced her into reciprocating with similar images.
He also threatened her job security and attempted to arrange a secret meeting outside of work for a sexual encounter.
The victim stated that Winkeljohn continued to contact her, even after she expressed discomfort, until she blocked his account.
Winkeljohn allegedly asked the minor to remain silent about their exchanges as he could face legal consequences, acknowledging he was aware of her age.
The events reportedly took place from April 29 to April 30, 2023.
As a result of the investigation, Winkeljohn was issued a citation to appear in the Washington County Superior Court, Criminal Division.
He will answer to the charges of luring a child, a felony, along with the misdemeanors of disseminating indecent material to a minor and disorderly conduct by electronic means.
No further information is available at this time.
