Haughton Man Pleads Guilty to Enticing Minor for Illegal Sex Acts
SHREVEPORT, La. – A Haughton man has pleaded guilty to enticing a minor to travel to Louisiana for the purpose of engaging in illegal sex acts.
Blake Lee Bissell, 27, of Haughton, Louisiana, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Elizabeth E. Foote to one count of coercion and enticement to travel to engage in criminal sexual activity.
According to the guilty plea, Bissell began an online relationship with a 14-year-old in early 2018. Shortly thereafter, Bissell traveled to West Virginia on June 30, 2018, picked up the minor, and transported the minor back to Louisiana where they engaged in illegal sexual activity.
The FBI and the Wheeling Police Department of West Virginia conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brian C. Flanagan and Earl M. Campbell are prosecuting the case.
Bissell faces up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine. The court set the sentencing date for May 2, 2019.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of online predators and the importance of protecting our children from exploitation. It is essential that we continue to work together to prevent such crimes and bring perpetrators to justice.
Bissell’s guilty plea is a significant step in the right direction, and we hope that it will serve as a warning to others who would engage in similar behavior.
Key Facts
- State: Louisiana
- Category: Sex Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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