FBI alleges man travelled from Ottawa to Nashville to have sex with child following undercover sting

An FBI seal is displayed on a podium in Portland, Ore., Jan. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Jenny Kane, File)

The U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) says a Canadian man was arrested in Nashville this week following an undercover sting into child sexual exploitation.

In a news release, the FBI alleged the man used an online messaging app to communicate with an undercover officer between May 6 and June 15, regarding “intention of engaging in sexual acts with a purported minor child.”

The FBI alleges the man distributed child sexual abuse and exploitation materials to the officer and made sexually explicit statements, before travelling from Ottawa to the United States on Monday, allegedly with the intent of having sex.

He was arrested by FBI agents upon arrival at Nashville International Airport, the FBI said.

The accused was identified by the FBI as Alexander Towns, 44. He is charged with distribution of child pornography, also known as child sexual abuse and exploitation materials, and attempted online enticement of a minor.

If convicted, police say he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and a maximum sentence of life in prison.

“To child predators who think you are anonymously preying upon vulnerable, innocent children through online applications, know that there’s a good chance the FBI is on the other end,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Olivia Olson.

The charges have not been proven in court. The case is being investigated by the FBI.