Williamsville Man Charged With Enticement Of A Minor

CONTACT:      Barbara Burns
PHONE:         (716) 843-5817
FAX:            (716) 551-3051

BUFFALO, N.Y.—Acting U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that Christopher Chase, 49, of Williamsville, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with enticement of a minor. The charge carries a maximum of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. 

Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian J. Counihan, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, on March 10, 2017, the defendant, using the name “The Dark Father,” initiated an online conversation with a female. Chase stated, “So, are you still looking for a boyfriend?  And do you like older men?” The defendant noted that he was looking for an “[e]specially submissive” girlfriend and asked for a cell number to continue a conversation. 

The following day, on March 11, 2017, Chase texted the female and asked, “Now the evil question are you really 18.” In the text, the female indicated that she was only 15 years-old. The defendant, however, continued to contact the female and request “naughty photos.” Following graphic conversation during which Chase described in detail sexual activities with the female, on March 29, 2017, the defendant arranged to meet the female at Walgreens in Depew, NY on April 2, 2017, in order to have sex with her. On April 2, 2017, shortly before the appointed meeting time, special agents with Homeland Security Investigations observed Chase’s car parked just down the street from the Walgreens where he had arranged to meet the female. After he pulled into the Walgreens parking lot, defendant was placed under arrest.  He was found to possess condoms and sex lubricant. 

The complaint is the result of an investigation by Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge James C. Spero.

                The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.