Crime & Safety
Man Charged with Luring a Child at Library
Authorities said the 36-year-old first initiated the girl, 12, in conversation. When she said she was bored, he came up with a plan he thought would keep her busy.
A man was arrested Wednesday afternoon at the South Manatee Library, 6081 26th Street West, after he allegedly tried to solicit a 12-year-old girl, according to the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office.
Eric Ray, 36, of the 2200 block of Emory Avenue in Bradenton, was charged with luring or enticing a child after he approached the girl around 1:30 p.m. and asked her to accompany him outside so she could “do a little work and make a little money,” according to the report.
When the victim tried to walk away, Ray persisted, saying that the more “work” she did, the more money she would make, the report states. He then reportedly took a wad of bills from his pocket and flashed it in front of her.
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The victim told a librarian what had happened and they called 911. When MCSO deputies arrived, the suspect was still in the library.
Ray was taken to Manatee County Jail and was released the same day.
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