Portsmouth man arrested on sex-related charges

Scioto County Sheriff David Thoroughman states that one of his detectives received a call Jan. 15 from an adult probation officer. The adult probation officer reported that they received information that an adult male, age 35, was allegedly talking inappropriately over social media to a middle school student.

The detective contacted the juvenile’s parents, which resulted in an investigation throughout the day. The investigation moved quickly to ensure the safety of the juvenile. 

The suspect allegedly contacted the juvenile through social media and began sending pictures of his genitals. The suspect then allegedly propositioned to meet the juvenile at an undisclosed location to have sex.

Detectives, along with Scioto County Common Pleas Adult Probation Officers, responded to the suspect’s residence. The suspect was detained without incident, and evidence was collected at the scene.

Arrested was Sean Allen Freeman, 35, of Portsmouth. Freeman has been charged with one count of importuning, a felony of the fifth degree; one count of attempted unlawful sexual conduct with a minor, a felony of the third degree; one count of disseminating matter harmful to a juvenile, a felony of the fifth degree; and probation violation. 

Thoroughman stated that this is still an ongoing investigation that could result in more charges at a later date.

Anyone with information should contact Detective Sergeant Jodi Conkel at 740-351-1091.