Hunter
11/07/24
An Iowa City man was arrested this week after allegedly enticing a person he thought was a pre-teenager for sexual purposes.
Police say in late October and early November, 35—year-old Zachary Phillips began messaging a person he believed to be 12 years of age. He allegedly requested nude photos and videos from the person, and stated he wanted to meet for sexual purposes, Phillips reportedly agreed to provide a condom and meet at the Old Capital Mall at a designated time.
Phillips arrived at the Mall after 3am Wednesday and was detained. A post-arrest search allegedly found an unused condom on his person.
Phillips was charged with Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, Enticing a minor for sexual purposes, and grooming. If convicted on all counts, he could be sentenced to up to 40 years in prison.