Bobby Joe Sheffield, 52, from Paris, Arkansas, was yesterday convicted by a federal jury in Tallahassee, Florida, of attempting to entice a minor to engage in sexual activity. The verdict came after an intensive investigation led by Operation Safe Summer, an undercover operation targeting online child sex exploitation.
During the trial, evidence revealed Sheffield’s communication with an undercover officer posing as a young girl. His intention to meet and engage in illegal acts was thwarted when he arrived at the pre-arranged meeting place, where law enforcement promptly apprehended him and discovered condoms in his possession. A further search of his phone confirmed his exchanges with the undercover agents.
U.S. Attorney John P. Heekin praised the joint efforts of state and federal law enforcement agencies, stating that Sheffield’s prosecution reflects a commitment to protecting vulnerable children from predators like him. Sheffield now faces a minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and life imprisonment, followed by supervised release. He is also required to register as a sex offender.
The investigation was conducted by the Bay County Sheriff’s Office and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, with prosecution handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Harley W. Ferguson and Joseph A. Ravelo. Sentencing is set for November 19, 2025.
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative combating child sexual exploitation. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida serves as a principal litigator under the direction of the Attorney General, dedicated to protecting the most vulnerable members of society against such predators.
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Key Facts
- State: Florida
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Sex Crimes|Cybercrime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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