A 66-year-old man from Berlin, Maryland, has been arrested by Delaware State Police on charges related to the sexual solicitation of underage children. Wayne Long, a resident of Berlin, was taken into custody following an extensive investigation. Authorities are now appealing to the public for assistance in identifying potential additional victims, particularly in the Sussex County region.
The investigation was launched by the Youth Aid Detectives of Delaware State Police Troop 4 on October 19, 2023, after receiving information alleging that Long had been soliciting explicit images from multiple underage boys via Snapchat.
So far, authorities have identified two victims who were targeted multiple times by Long during the summer months. Long, who was previously employed as a custodian at the Indian River School District, has been known to support various athletic teams, including those at Sussex Central High School. Detectives suspect that there may be more victims who were possibly approached through Snapchat or other social media platforms in recent years.
Following his summons to Troop 4 on October 30, 2023, Long has been charged with two felony counts of Sexual Solicitation of a Child Under 18. He was arraigned at the Justice of the Peace Court 2 and is currently detained at the Sussex Correctional Institution, with an $80,000 cash bond set.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about Long’s activities or potential further victims to come forward. This case has raised concerns about ensuring the safety of children using social media platforms and the need for increased vigilance in monitoring their online interactions.
The arrest of Wayne Long serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that exist online, particularly for vulnerable young individuals. It is imperative that parents, guardians, and educators remain vigilant in educating children about the potential risks and ensuring their safety in the digital world.
The Delaware State Police and relevant authorities will continue their efforts to identify any additional victims in connection with this case. They urge the public to assist in this ongoing investigation and provide any information that may aid in their pursuit of justice for those affected.
In summary, the arrest of a 66-year-old Berlin man for soliciting underage children on Snapchat has led to an urgent appeal to the public for assistance in identifying further potential victims. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are committed to putting an end to these disturbing incidents and ensuring the safety of young individuals in the digital realm.
