Tilon Nathani Woodard, 19, of Chesterton, has been charged in Jasper County following an investigation into alleged online communications with a minor.
According to a probable cause affidavit filed Jan. 20, deputies were dispatched on Jan. 18 around 9:07 p.m. to the 100 block of Robbins Street regarding a report of a male attempting to meet a 13-year-old female.
Court documents state deputies spoke with a male affiliated with NWI Predators, who said he had been acting as a 13-year-old decoy on a dating app. The decoy reported that Woodard initially contacted him through the app and later continued communication via a separate texting platform.
The affidavit states the decoy informed Woodard that she was 13 and would turn 14 the following month. Despite acknowledging that this age was “too young” given he was 19, Woodard allegedly continued messaging the decoy.
Woodard reportedly expressed interest in a romantic relationship with the decoy, asking if she wanted to hang out that evening, go for a drive, and watch a movie in his car. He also allegedly indicated he wanted to make out with her.
The decoy agreed to meet, and deputies were provided with text messages and other evidence of the communications.
When questioned, Woodard told deputies he believed he was communicating with someone who was 19. He acknowledged seeing messages stating the decoy’s true age but claimed he did not believe them because the dating profile listed 19.
Charge Filed Jan. 20, 2026:
-
Child Solicitation – Level 4 Felony