'Pedophiles are a serious danger:' Investigators say man traveled 100+ miles to have sex with girls

RACINE COUNTY, Wis. -- (WITI) -- An Indiana man, 56, was arrested Wednesday, Feb. 28 in Racine County after officials say he traveled approximately 109 miles to have sex with girls, 11 and 15.

Richard Barney faces six charges:

• Use of a computer to facilitate a child sex crime
• Attempted first degree sexual assault of a child under age 12
• Attempted second degree sexual assault of a child under 16
• Possession of child pornography (three counts)

According to a criminal complaint, a member of Racine County's Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force located an ad on Craigslist — male seeking men or women — “specifically those into taboo acts with no limits.” The ad made reference to single mothers.

According to the Racine County Sheriff's Office, for the past several weeks, Barney has been communicating with the undercover Racine County Sheriff's Office Internet Crimes Against Children investigator, who was posing as a mother willing to sell her daughters, age 15 and 11 for sex.

The complaint says Barney indicated “he did the same thing with two girls he was familiar with and it was the most beautiful experience for all.”

During this time, the suspect sent pornographic photos, a picture of his face and his cellphone number. He allegedly asked about the girls' sexual development, and sent inappropriate photos of himself. According to the complaint, Barney “expressed his desire to form a long-term sexual relationship — teaching (the girls).” He said “he believes little girls are the most precious things in the world, so innocent and looking for us to guide them.” He said “it's sad that such a type of love has to be hidden.”

Arrangements were made for Barney to meet the girls' mother (who was actually the undercover investigator) at Burger King on Highway 20 and I-94 in Mount Pleasant. He arrived on Feb. 28, and texted the “mother,” asking that they move to another location. They then headed to McDonald's, and Barney's vehicle was stopped en route. He was found with Viagra, the complaint says. He was taken to jail, where he admitted to posting the Craigslist ad, and communicating with the “mother.” He told investigators “this isn't me.”