Police: Colonie man attempted to meet, rape 12-year-old

COLONIE – A Colonie man attempted to meet and rape a 12-year-old, Colonie police said Monday.

The man’s attempt this weekend to meet a child ended with police waiting for him in a local park. Police, however, fear he may have directly victimized children and police are asking anyone with information to contact them.

Police arrested John P. Fleshman, 27, of 193 Morris Road, on multiple felony counts, including second-degree attempted rape and possessing and promoting a sexual performance by a child, police said.

The local investigation began last week when Colonie investigators received a tip from the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office in central Washington State concerning attempts by Fleshman to meet a minor for sex that included attempts made over the internet and text messages, police said.

A meeting was scheduled for Saturday at the Schuyler Flatts Cultural Park in Colonie, where police then arrested Fleshman just after 8:30 a.m.

Police seized digital media devices from his vehicle and residence. They have been turned over to state police for examination.

“As a result of this investigation, we believe that there are live victims of Mr. Fleshman and Investigators will continue to follow up in this regard,” police said in a release.

Anyone who believes they may be a victim of Fleshman or has information is asked to contact Colonie Police at 518-783-2754.

The FBI Child Exploitation Task Force and the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office assisted. 

Fleshman also faces one count of attempted criminal sex act and two counts of first-degree disseminating indecent material to a minor, police said.

Fleshman was arraigned and ordered held without bail.

 

Also Monday:

• Albany DA: Leandra’s Law plea nets repeat drunk driver 15 years to life in prison, March 18, 2019
• Troopers: Man broke out car windows with hammer in Wilton, fought with others, March 17, 2019
• Troopers: Drunk driver from Clifton Park drove 96 mph on Northway in Colonie, March 17, 2019

Categories: News