BELFAST — A Belfast man was arrested and charged with gross sexual assault Aug. 8, following an anonymous online tip.

Christopher G. Farrar, 28, was arrested following an investigation conducted by Belfast Police Detective Gerald Lincoln. The incident is alleged to have taken place July 25.

The illegal activity was first brought to the attention of law enforcement after a concerned citizen used the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children’s CyberTipline to report their suspicions.

The information was passed to the Maine State Police Computer Crimes Unit, and ultimately to Belfast Police.

Lincoln learned that there was possible child pornography being passed between a 13-year-old juvenile and Farrar.

In addition to the pictures, which reportedly showed the minor in question, Lincoln learned there was a possibility the two had sexual intercourse at his residence.  

In an interview the juvenile admitted to sending pictures of herself to Farrar, and to the sexual contact between them, Lincoln said. 

Farrar was later located by police and interviewed at the station, where Lincoln said he ultimately admitted to the relationship and sexual contact. He also admitted knowing the girl’s age during their communication.

Both the juvenile and Farrar told Lincoln they considered themselves to be in a romantic relationship, though Lincoln pointed out 13 is below the legal age of consent in Maine.

Farrar is scheduled to appear in court  Sept. 9.

Erica Thoms can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com