A Centerville man is facing felony charges following an undercover investigation conducted by the Centerville Police Department.
According to court documents, on December 20 at approximately 8:14 a.m., a Centerville police officer posed as an underage female on Facebook. During the investigation, the officer engaged in an online conversation with Todd Bratz, 62, of Centerville.
The police complaint states Bratz was informed during the conversation that the individual he was speaking with was 15 years old. Investigators allege Bratz indicated he was comfortable with the age and continued the conversation.
Court records show Bratz allegedly expressed interest in meeting the underage individual, stating he wanted to pick her up, drive around, and see what might happen. Investigators report the conversation included discussion of inappropriate sexual activity.
After a meeting location was agreed upon, Bratz left his residence in the 2000 block of South Main Street. Officers conducted a traffic stop on Bratz’s vehicle while he was en route to the agreed-upon location.
Bratz was taken into custody and transported to the Appanoose County Jail. He was later released on bond.
Bratz is charged with Enticing a Minor Under 16 for Sexual Purposes, a Class D felony, and Grooming, also a Class D felony. A preliminary hearing has not been scheduled at the time of this report.
