INTERNET PREDATOR SENTENCED

Hammond, IN–The United States Attorney’s Office announced that on May 3, 2007, David C. Rouhselang, age 41, of Crown Point, Indiana was sentenced by Judge Philip Simon to a term of 120 months imprisonment; 5 years supervised release; $1,000 fine; $100 special assessment. The sentencing was the result of Rouhselang’s conviction after a three day trial in January, 2007 on a one count indictment of 18 U.S.C. 2422(b), use of the internet to persuade, induce, entice and coerce an individual whom the defendant believed to be a female minor under the age of eighteen, but who was in fact, an undercover law enforcement officer, to engage in sexual activity for which a person may be charged with a criminal offense under Indiana law.

The investigation began in August, 2006 when Rouhselang initiated an instant message conversation with the undercover agent posing as “Amanda”, whose profile listed her as 13 years old. After several chat sessions, Rouhselang agreed to meet “Amanda” at a specific location in Porter County for the purpose of engaging in sexual activity on August 18, 2006. Rouhselang arrived at the agreed meeting place and was arrested by the U. S. Secret Service and officers from the Porter County Sheriff’s Department.

This case was investigated by the United States Secret Service and was prosecuted by AUSA Philip C. Benson of the Northern District of Indiana U.S. Attorney’s Office.

###