Columbus Man Accused of Attempting to Lure 13-Year-Old Girl

Suspect arrested on child enticement and public indecency charges after alleged incident in Hamilton Township

Feb. 4, 2026 at 1:47pm

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A 20-year-old man was arrested in Franklin County, Ohio after a 13-year-old girl reported he approached her in a car, was fondling himself, and asked her to get in the vehicle. The girl ran away and reported the incident to authorities, leading to the man's arrest on charges of child enticement and public indecency.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing need for public awareness and education around child safety, as well as the importance of swift law enforcement action to protect minors from potential predators in the community.

The details

According to the Franklin County Sheriff's Office, the 13-year-old girl reported the man approached her in a car just before 3 p.m. on February 2nd in the Hamilton Meadows neighborhood. The girl said the man had no pants on, was fondling himself, and asked her to get in the car. She was able to run away and report the incident to authorities, leading to the man's arrest on the Far West Side of Columbus.

  • The incident occurred just before 3 p.m. on February 2, 2026.
  • The suspect was arrested on February 4, 2026.

The players

Franklin County Sheriff's Office

The local law enforcement agency that investigated the incident and made the arrest.

20-year-old suspect

The man arrested and charged with child enticement and public indecency in relation to the alleged incident.

13-year-old girl

The minor who reported the man's actions and prompted the investigation and arrest.

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What they’re saying

“This incident serves as an important reminder for parents and guardians to talk with their children about stranger danger and personal safety.”

— Franklin County Sheriff's Office (dispatch.com)

What’s next

The judge will determine whether to allow the 20-year-old suspect out on bail at his upcoming arraignment hearing.

The takeaway

This case underscores the need for continued vigilance and open communication between parents/guardians and children about personal safety, as well as the critical role of law enforcement in swiftly responding to and addressing potential threats to minors in the community.