A Summit man is behind bars after authorities found him allegedly trying to seduce a minor.
On Saturday at around 4:00 p.m., the Brookhaven Police Department began investigating Benny Myers, 43, for possible Exploitation. Authorities say Myers was allegedly attempting to lure a 12-year-old child to meet with him in order to engage in sexual activity.
An undercover Brookhaven Police Department officer met with Myers at his designated meeting location. With the utilization of the undercover officer, as well as assistance from the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, and Investigators of the 14th District Attorney’s Office, Myers was taken into custody without incident at around 9:00 p.m., just hours after the initial report.
Subsequent to Myers’ arrest, with the assistance of the Pike County Sheriff’s Office, Investigators of the 14th District Attorney’s Office, and Agents of the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics, a search warrant was conducted at Myer’s home in Summit. The search warrant resulted in numerous electronic devices which will be processed as evidence in this case.
“This case is a prime example of why we should all continue to encourage parents to teach their children about safety measures and the importance of maintaining personal security in all aspects of life, especially in social media,” said Assistant District Attorney Brendon Adams. “In this case, the child was brave enough to come forward in a timely manner. We encourage all parents to have a relationship with their children where the child will feel safe to come forward when faced with difficult situations.”
Authorities say Benny Myers was arrested and booked into the Lincoln County Jail for Child Exploitation. This is an on-going investigation, and no further details will be released until after court proceedings. All suspects are innocent until proven guilty.
“This case is also a prime example of what it looks like when law enforcement comes together to help save a child. All law enforcement worked diligently, swiftly, and tirelessly with one another to ensure a quick and safe apprehension of Benny Myers, said Adams. “They could not have done any better.”
