MADISON HEIGHTS (WWJ) - A man has been charged with multiple felonies after sending inappropriate pictures to a 12-year-old, and investigators say they are looking for more potential victims.
Barron Dukes is accused of sending explicit photos to a 12-year-old over Instagram, Snapchat and texts. He also allegedly asked the victim to send him photos in return.
The Madison Heights Police Department said they believe there may be other victims and are asking the public for help in identifying them.
"If your child has had contact with this person via social media or in person, have a conversation with the child and if necessary come to the police department to make a report,” Lieutenant David Koehler said. “Obviously, it's to get justice for everybody, but also it's potential assistance to the survivors and victims of this gentleman."
Dukes is facing five charges, criminal sexual conduct 1st degree, child sexually abusive activity, possession of child sexually abusive material and two counts of using a computer to commit a crime, authorities said.
Dukes was charged on Nov. 17. The sentences for charges range from four years for the computer crimes, to life in prison for the first degree criminal sexual conduct.
Koehler said there are ways for parents to keep their kids safe while online. It’s important to have conversations with your kids about the hazards of using social media and the potential of becoming a victim. There are also apps and programs available that allow parents to monitor their kids' social media usage.
If you have any information, please contact Detective Sergeant Hartunian at 248-837-2737 or the Madison Heights Police Department at 248-585-2100.