Sex Crimes Team Busts Richland Man Seeking Encounter

Richland Police have announced working with the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICACTF) has resulted in the arrest Tuesday of a Richland man.

37-year-old Tony M. Birch is facing the following charges, say Richland police:

"RCW 9A.44.076: Rape of a child in the second degree-attempted (AROC 2) and RCW 9.68A.090: Communication with a minor for immoral purposes-felony."

Birch came under scrutiny earlier this summer when watchdog task force members saw he'd posted an ad on a social media site, looking for sexual activity. Proceeding after a response, Birch has reportedly told officers he continue to pursue the situation despite knowing the other person was a minor.

He kept communicating in a sexual manner with the child, and was arrested when he attempted to set up an actual encounter. More information is expected soon, the investigation continues.