By: Laura Soukkavong –
Southbridge – An 86-year-old Southbridge man faces charges after police say he offered a junveile money in exchange for sexual activity outside a Main Street convenience store.
Officers responded to Cumberland Farms at 357 Main Street around 5:48 p.m. on Tues., Oct. 20,. According to police, the juvenile reported that the man tried to persuade them to accompany him to his home. Investigators also allege he offered money to lure the juvenile into his vehicle.
Store employees helped the juvenile remian safe until family members arrived.
Police identified the suspect as Hiram J. Gonzalez of Southbridge. Authorities described Gonzalez as a Level 3 registered sex offender with prior convictions involving sexual offenses against children.
Gonzalez was arrested at the scene and charged with enticing a minor, disorderly conduct and dirsturbing the peace. Police said he was held on $10,000 cash bail and arraigned in Dudley District Court on Wednes. Oct. 21.
Southbridge Police are asking anyone with information about this incident or similar encounters to contact the department.
The charges are allegations. Gonzalez is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.