1/12/2007 Clifton Park, New York , man was arrested on charges that he attempted to use the Internet to persuade, induce and entice a minor to engage in sexual activity.

January 12, 2007

PRESS RELEASE

Glenn T. Suddaby, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of New York, and John F. Pikus, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Albany Division, announced today that CHRISTOPHER DEGUTIS, age 39, of Clifton Park, New York , was arrested on charges that he attempted to use the Internet to persuade, induce and entice a minor to engage in sexual activity. DEGUTIS was taken before United States Magistrate Judge Randolph Treece for his initial appearance today. He was released after various conditions on his release were imposed and ordered to appear on January 17, 2007, with his attorney.

According to the complaint, DEGUTIS met who he thought was a 14 year old female on America Online, eventually discussed meeting her in order to engage in sexual acts, and thereafter arranged to meet her today at a Dunkin Donuts restaurant located within a Walmart store in Glenmont, New York. The alleged 14 year old was actually an undercover officer. DEGUTIS was arrested today in the parking lot of the Walmart store. Law enforcement agents also searched DEGUTIS' residence today.

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation's Cyber Predator Task Force and the Bethlehem Police Department.

CONTACT:
Thomas Spina Jr.
Assistant U.S. Attorney
tel.(518) 431-0247