A Houston man was arrested in Baytown after allegedly attempting to meet a minor for sexual contact during an undercover police operation.
Convicted Sex Offender Arrested in Baytown
BAYTOWN, Texas (KTRK) — A convicted sex offender was arrested and charged after an online operation. He tried to meet someone he thought was a 16-year-old girl, according to the Baytown Police Department.
The police department stated that Toby James Woods, 33, from Houston, was charged with online solicitation of a minor. This charge is a felony, and his arrest occurred on January 8.
Investigators from the Baytown Police Department’s Special Investigations Unit ran an undercover operation. They aimed to catch people trying to exploit minors online when they contacted Woods and arranged a meeting.
Woods believed he was talking to a 16-year-old girl. He allegedly planned to meet her at a local school to engage in sexual contact.
When Woods arrived at the designated location, officers took him into custody without incident.
“Protecting our youth is one of our highest priorities,” said Baytown Police Chief John Stringer in a statement. “Operations like this are a reminder that online platforms can be used to target minors, and we will continue to proactively identify and hold accountable those who attempt to exploit them.”
Baytown police encouraged parents and guardians to talk openly with their children about online activity. They also asked the public to report any suspicious or concerning behavior to law enforcement.
| Date | Event | Person Involved | Charge |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 8 | Arrest of Toby James Woods | Toby James Woods, 33 | Online solicitation of a minor |
