Long Beach Police Catch Man Accused of Using Porn to Lure Children

Parents may rest easy knowing suspect is behind bars

LONG BEACH - A man is in custody on suspicion of showing pornographic materials to children and trying to lure them away from their homes, the Long Beach Police Department said Wednesday morning.

On a tip from someone in the community, Long Beach detectives found 26-year-old Derek Christopher Nixon in the city of Torrance on Friday. They also found a vehicle fitting the description of the one they had been looking for in connection with the crimes. 

Upon serving a search warrant, detectives said they recovered evidence they believe Nixon used to try to lure young children away.

The crimes occurred between last October and Sept. 10 of this year, said Nancy Pratt of the LBPD.  The victims ages range from five years old to 11 and detectives said they believe there are more victims that have not come forward.

The alleged incidents occurred at or near the homes of children when they were unattended. In each case, the suspect showed the child pornographic material and tried without success to persuade the youngster to go to a nearby alleyway, Pratt said.

About two weeks ago, police circulated a photo of a suspect that was taken by a security camera at one child's home.

The first crime occurred on Oct. 9, 2007, at Seventh Street and Pacific Avenue. The other crimes occurred on May 3 at Hill Street and Atlantic Avenue; on July 28 at Hill Street and Long Beach Boulevard; on Aug. 11 near Gale Avenue and 19th Street; and on Sept. 10 at 15th Street and Cherry Avenue.

Police reminded parents to supervise their children, even when at home in the yard, and to call authorities if they see anything suspicious.

Derek Christopher Nixon remains in jail on a 240-thousand dollar bond.

Anyone who believes they, too, may have been a victim of Nixon is urged to contact the Long Beach Police Department Crime Tip Line at 562-570-7878.

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