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Joshua John Brown was arrested days after interacting with detectives posing as a 13-year-old girl on a social media platform, while openly acknowledging the age difference and illegality of the conversations.
According to the sheriff's office, Brown identified himself as a 30-year-old named "John," and despite expressing concerns about possible consequences, he "continued to make sexually suggestive remarks," and talked about meeting up.
"He suggested activities such as watching a movie, cuddling, and getting close, while also inquiring about the girl's sexual history," investigators said. They then planned to meet on Friday, July 26 "with the intention of engaging in sexual activity, while emphasizing the secrecy due to the age differences."
The meet in Bel Air did not go as Brown expected.
Investigators say that he arrived in the area of Cortland Place, where he was observed by plainclothes officers.
Unwittingly, Brown parked behind an unmarked Harford County Sheriff's Office vehicle before relocating minutes later near an alternate meeting location.
When Brown attempted to leave the area, he was stopped by detectives still surveilling him, who arrested him without incident.
He was taken to the Harford County Detention Center and initially held on $5,000 bail before being released after securing a bond.
Detectives are now searching for other possible victims.
"Remember it is crucial to emphasize the importance of discussing online risks with your child," a department spokesperson said.
"Encourage open and honest communication about online activities and remind thme to never share personal information with strangers or agree to meet someone they have only interacted with online."
The investigation into Brown is ongoing.
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