The Attorney General’s Office has announced the arraignment of Stephen Lane, a 55-year-old resident of Winooski, Vermont. Lane faces one felony count of luring a child. This charge follows an investigation by the Department of the Army Criminal Intelligence Division, which was later referred to the Vermont Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (VT-ICAC). The Burlington Police Department, South Burlington Police Department, and Winooski Police Department also assisted in the investigation.
Lane allegedly engaged in sexually explicit conversations online with a Department of the Army Special Agent who posed as a 13-year-old minor. The communications reportedly took place via Meeff and WhatsApp.
At his arraignment in Vermont Superior Court, Chittenden Criminal Division, Lane pleaded not guilty. Judge David Fenster set conditions for his release that limit his contact with minors and restrict his internet access.
The VT-ICAC is responsible for investigating cases involving child sexual exploitation over the internet. This includes addressing issues such as the production and distribution of child sexual abuse materials. They also offer forensic examination services, technical assistance, law enforcement training, and public education.
The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) serves as a centralized reporting system for online child exploitation. Reports can be made regarding various forms of online child exploitation through their 24-hour call center or website.
For those recovering from child sexual exploitation, NCMEC provides support services including emotional support and assistance in removing content from the internet. More information is available on their website or through their call center.
The Attorney General’s Office reminds that individuals charged with crimes are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in court.