Spencer W. Caudle, Online Child Enticement, New Jersey 2023

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TRENTON, N.J. – A Louisiana man is facing federal charges for allegedly using an internet-based chat application to entice a minor into prohibited sexual activity, according to a complaint filed by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in New Jersey.

Spencer W. Caudle, 34, of Prairieville, Louisiana, is charged with one count each of persuading, inducing, enticing, or coercing a minor through a facility of interstate commerce into prohibited sexual activity, interstate travel with the intent to engage in illicit conduct with a minor, and possession of child pornography.

According to court documents, Caudle began interacting with the victim on online social media applications in April 2023. Despite the victim informing Caudle of their minor status, Caudle continued to engage in sexual conversations with the victim. In May 2023, Caudle drove from Louisiana to meet the victim in Toms River, New Jersey, and committed sexual acts on the victim.

Local law enforcement became aware of Caudle’s prohibited sexual activity with the victim and began an investigation. In June 2023, an undercover law enforcement officer assumed the victim’s online and cellular presence and communicated with Caudle. During these conversations, Caudle confirmed his prior sexual acts with the victim and expressed a desire for further sexual activity.

Caudle was arrested at Newark Liberty International Airport on June 16, 2023, after flying from New Orleans, Louisiana. A search of Caudle’s laptop revealed at least 10 images and five videos of child sexual abuse.

The charge of persuading, inducing, enticing, or coercing a minor into prohibited sexual activity through an internet-based chat application carries a minimum penalty of 10 years in prison and a maximum penalty of life in prison. The charge of interstate travel with the intent to engage in illicit conduct with a minor carries a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison. The charge of possession of child pornography carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison.

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