A man suspected of trying to lure children was arrested

ALLEGHANY COUNTY, Va. (WDBJ) – A West Virginia man was arrested on Thursday, October 31, for allegedly trying to lure children online.

According to the Alleghany County Sheriff’s Office, investigators contacted the man in Tucker County, West Virginia online. According to deputies, after confirming his address and contacting West Virginia State Police, investigators traveled to WV to interview the man.

Phillip W. Crossland, 50, was arrested and pleaded guilty to four counts of using a communications system to facilitate the commission of certain crimes against minors. He is being held at Tygart Valley Regional Jail in West Virginia and is awaiting extradition to Alleghany Regional Jail.

Sheriff Moore stated: “We are committed to protecting the innocence of children in our community and stand united with our law enforcement partners to ensure that those who threaten the safety of our children are held accountable. The Alleghany County Sheriff’s Office will always make these types of investigations a priority.”

Sheriff Moore would also like to remind parents and guardians to always be aware of what your children and those in your care view online.