Jonathan John James, Attempted Coercion and Enticement of a Minor, New Mexico 2024

Attempted Enticement of a Minor Lands Arizona Man in Hot Water

Grimy Times has learned that Jonathan John James, 58, of Tsaile, Arizona, was charged with attempted coercion and enticement of a minor after a disturbing series of events unfolded in Gallup, New Mexico.

According to a federal complaint, James allegedly followed a child as she shopped with a grandparent at a Home Depot in Gallup, New Mexico, on April 20. He then approached the victim, told her she was attractive, and gave her his telephone number, written on a wet wipe package, in hopes they would communicate.

On April 20, James allegedly began exchanging sexually explicit messages with someone he thought was the victim. These messages were reported to the FBI on April 27. James continued exchanging messages with a person he thought was the victim, sending 24 images of obscene material depicting adults engaged in sexual activities, all of which showed nudity, and arranging to meet the victim.

On May 5, James traveled from Arizona to a park in Gallup to meet the victim. He was detained by the FBI upon arrival.

James will remain on conditions of release pending trial, which has not been scheduled. If convicted, he faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison.

The case was investigated by the FBI Child Exploitation Human Trafficking Task Force with assistance from the Gallup Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Nicholas J. Marshall is prosecuting the case as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse.

James’ case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of protecting our children from predators. Grimy Times will continue to monitor this case and provide updates as more information becomes available.

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