Robert W. Thomas, Attempted Child Purchase, OH, 2023

ALLIANCE, OH – Robert W. Thomas, 37, of Cuyahoga Falls, will spend the next three decades behind bars after being sentenced to 30 years in prison for attempting to buy a 10-year-old girl. The sentence was handed down following a disturbing case that unfolded earlier this year, revealing a calculated effort to exploit a child.

According to court documents, Thomas was found guilty on three counts: offering to buy a child, enticement, and receipt and distribution of visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. The investigation began when Thomas posted an online solicitation seeking someone willing to arrange a “marriage” with their daughter. An undercover officer with the Alliance Police Department, assigned to the Ohio Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, responded to the posting, initiating a chilling dialogue with the predator.

The exchange led to a planned meeting at a business in Alliance on January 11, 2014. Thomas agreed to pay $400 for what he believed to be a 10-year-old child. As he approached the undercover officer’s vehicle to complete the “transaction,” authorities moved in to arrest him. He was found with $400 cash in hand, ready to finalize the horrific deal.

“This sentence is well-deserved given the disturbing nature of the charges,” stated Steven M. Dettelbach, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio. “Our office remains committed to working with the FBI and all our law enforcement partners to defend our children and fight human trafficking.” Stephen D. Anthony, Special Agent in Charge of the Cleveland Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the proactive and aggressive pursuit of those who prey on children.

The successful prosecution was a collaborative effort between the FBI, Alliance Police Department, and the Cuyahoga Falls Police Department. Law Director Jennifer L. Arnold of Alliance praised the professionalism and cooperation displayed by all agencies involved, specifically highlighting the work of Detective Shatzer, who led the investigation. “The city of Alliance is very satisfied with the result in this matter,” Arnold stated.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael A. Sullivan prosecuted the case. This conviction serves as a stark warning: those who seek to harm children will be relentlessly pursued and brought to justice. The investigation underscores the importance of vigilance and the critical role of law enforcement in protecting the most vulnerable members of our society. This isn’t just a case closed; it’s a promise kept – a promise to defend our children at any cost.

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