Detectives with the Central California Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force have arrested 54 year old Michael Dickens of Clovis.
Dickens has been an active parent involved with girls’ water polo clubs in Clovis and Fresno and a coach of a girls’ softball team in Clovis, according to a news release from the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office.
He has been booked into the Fresno County Jail and faces charges related to arranging to meet with a minor to engage in sex and distributing pornographic material to a child.
His bail is set at $40,000.
Unknowingly Contacted an Undercover Detective
ICAC detectives monitor social media platforms for potential sexual solicitations toward children. Authorities said Dickens unknowingly contacted an undercover detective posing as a 12-year-old child. Dickens then arranged a meeting for the purpose of sex, the news release said.
Detectives arrived at a predetermined location Friday afternoon, met with Dickens and arrested him, according to the release.
Other Possible Victims
Detectives believe there may be children who have had inappropriate interactions with Dickens in the past.
Anyone with concerns is urged to contact Lieutenant Brandon Pursell at (559) 600-8029 or Valley Crime Stoppers at (559) 498-7867, www.valleycrimestoppers.org
