Agents with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement arrested Joseph Robert Meahl, 50, of 508 Second Ave., Wildwood,on federal charges of coercion and enticement after he allegedly attempted to meet a child for sex. This case was investigated by FDLE and the FBI Child Exploitation Task Force.
The investigation began in April, when Meahl engaged in a series of emails with an undercover agent who Meahl believed was the parent of two boys aged 9 and 14.
During the email exchanges, Meahl offered to meet the boys for the purpose of engaging in sexual activity. Meahl traveled to a Sunrise hotel in Broward County for the meeting.
Agents believe Meahl could have committed additional sex crimes. If you have information about Meahl, contact FDLE Miami at (800) 226-3023.