BOZEMAN - A Bozeman man appeared in Gallatin County Justice Court on Wednesday where he was charged with felony sexual abuse of children after he reportedly attempted to arrange a meeting with an undercover detective he thought was a 13-year-old child.
Kenneth J. Sheehan, 33, is being held on $100,000 bail.
According to charging documents, in July a Bozeman Police Department detective created a profile on a popular social networking app using an undercover persona. The detective used the app which is allegedly frequented by people who prey on children.
On July 20, the detective was contacted by a person, later identified as Sheehan. When the detective began to communicate with Sheehan the detective informed Sheehan he was 13 years old. Sheehan reportedly told the detective he was nervous that the man was a cop and that he could get into trouble for talking to the detective.
During a conversation on Snapchat, Sheehan asked for photos and made graphic sexual remarks, authorities allege. Sheehan reportedly asked if a meeting between him and the teen could take place and agreed to meet at a Bozeman city park.
Bozeman police officers set up at Bozeman Ponds and observed Sheehan drive into the parking lot where he was arrested.
During an interview with the detective, Sheehan reportedly admitted to the conversation with the undercover persona and advised the detective he is a high school tennis coach for Bozeman High School and is often in the presence of teenagers. Sheehan's claim to be a high school coach was not immediately confirmed.
