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A Jacksonville resident has admitted guilt in a disturbing case involving the attempted exploitation of a minor, according to a recent announcement by the Department of Justice. This revelation underscores a serious offense with significant legal consequences.
The individual in question, identified as Tony Leroy Bartley Jr., aged 37, now faces the grim possibility of spending his life in prison. At a minimum, he is looking at a decade behind bars, a punishment that reflects the gravity of his crime. Additionally, he could be subject to lifetime supervised release, a measure intended to prevent future offenses and protect the community.
The troubling events unfolded between June 17 and July 30, 2025. During this period, Bartley engaged in a series of online exchanges with an undercover FBI agent. These interactions took place on a social media platform that remains unnamed at this time. Utilizing the alias “keven,” Bartley communicated with someone he believed to be a 13-year-old girl.
The situation escalated when the undercover agent, posing as the young girl, reported that Bartley suggested they engage in sexually explicit conversations. This critical piece of evidence contributed to his guilty plea and highlights the vigilance of law enforcement in combating such predatory behavior.
As the case progresses, it serves as a stark reminder of the persistent dangers lurking online and the importance of continued efforts to safeguard minors from exploitation.
Through the exchanged messages, the DOJ said Bartley described “sexual acts he wanted to perform” and sent an explicit photo.
According to the DOJ, Bartley was arrested by FBI agents on Aug. 5, 2025. During an interview, Bartley is said to have confirmed that he had exchanged messages having to do with sexual activity with someone underage.
“I should have stopped at 13, and that’s on me,” Bartley said.
Bartley’s scheduling hearing is set for April 21, 2026.