Jeremy Batey, 43, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, is accused of using a cell phone to attempt to lure a minor into sexual activity, federal prosecutors announced today. The charge—Attempted Enticement of a Minor—carries a maximum penalty of ten years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The indictment, returned by a federal grand jury in February 2018, alleges Batey initiated contact with what he believed to be a child and pursued a sexual relationship through electronic communication. Federal law enforcement sources confirm the investigation was triggered by digital surveillance and online undercover operations.
According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the return of an indictment is not a finding of guilt, but a formal accusation that must be proven in court beyond a reasonable doubt. Batey remains presumed innocent until proven otherwise, but if convicted, he will face mandatory sentencing guidelines and federal registration as a sex offender.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Tulsa Police Department led the investigation, combing through digital records, call logs, and messaging apps to build the case. Authorities stress the growing prevalence of predators using mobile technology to exploit minors.
Batey’s case is one of several unveiled from the same grand jury session, revealing a broader crackdown on sex crimes and firearms violations across northeastern Oklahoma. His next court appearance is pending in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Oklahoma.
No bond details or prior criminal history were disclosed at press time. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, led by R. Trent Shores, continues to push for swift prosecution in cases involving the attempted sexual exploitation of children.
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Key Facts
- State: Oklahoma
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Sex Crimes
- Source: Official Source ↗
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