Tri City Man Arrested in Myrtle Creek Online Sex Crimes Investigation

MYRTLE CREEK, Ore. - A Tri City man was arrested early Saturday morning following an investigation into alleged online contact with a juvenile, according to the Myrtle Creek Police Department.

Police said the investigation began Aug. 28 after officers became aware of an online conversation between 52-year-old Andrew Anthony Howren of Tri City and a juvenile who was not known to him.

According to the department, the conversation included graphic sexual messages and photographs allegedly sent by Howren to the juvenile. Police said the two eventually made plans to meet for sexual contact.

At about 1 a.m. Aug. 29, police said Howren arrived to pick up the juvenile and was taken into custody without incident.

After being interviewed, Howren was transported to the Douglas County Jail, where he was lodged on allegations of Online Sexual Corruption of a Child in the First Degree, Online Sexual Corruption of a Child in the Second Degree and Luring a Minor.

The Douglas County Sheriff's Office assisted Myrtle Creek police with the arrest.

Investigators are asking anyone who may have had, or witnessed, inappropriate online contact involving Howren to contact Detective Kevin Taggart. Police are also encouraging parents to monitor their children's online activity and report anything suspicious to authorities.

The Myrtle Creek Police Department said the case remains under investigation and no additional details are being released at this time.

Charges are allegations, and Howren is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.