Man Indicted for Kidnapping Greenville Teen to Engage in Sexual Activity, Officials Say
GREENVILLE, S.C. – The United States Department of Justice office said a federal grand jury returned a three-count indictment against a man for kidnapping a Greenville teen with the intent to engage in sexual conduct.
Online Game Connection
The indictment alleges that 35-year-old Tyler Michael Berlick of Wisconsin traveled to South Carolina with the intent to engage in sexual activity with a minor. Berlick met the girl in an online game and believed she was 13 years old.
Arrest and Charges
He was taken into custody in Florida on February 13, 2024, on a kidnapping charge. Berlick is now facing indictments on production of child sexual abuse materials, transporting a minor across state lines with the intent to engage in sexual conduct, and traveling across state lines with the intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct with a minor.
Possible Penalties
Berlick faces a maximum penalty of life in prison and is scheduled to be arraigned on May 23.
Conclusion
This case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of online interactions and the importance of vigilance in protecting minors from predatory behavior.
