One jailed in sting operation

SMITH COUNTY — A man was arrested in Smith County following a sting where he allegedly made plans for a prostitution operation involving someone he believed was a 15-year-old. The operation began on Feb. 27 when an undercover officer posted a commercial sex advertisement on a website known for prostitution and the exploitation of minors, according to our news partner, KETK. The officer was contacted by Christopher David Stevens, a man with a prior conviction as a sex offender, according to an arrest affidavit from Smith County.

In communications with the undercover officer, Stevens allegedly acknowledged he was interacting with a minor and expressed his intention to engage in sexual activities. He offered to secure a hotel room in his name for their meeting. As part of the arrangement, the undercover officer informed Stevens that she would be traveling from Abilene to Tyler.

Stevens volunteered to pick her up, stating he planned to have sex with her in his car before heading to the hotel, where he would facilitate further arrangements for clients in exchange for money. Despite the planned pickup from a bus stop, Stevens ultimately did not show up.

He was arrested on Tuesday and charged with solicitation of prostitution involving a minor under 18. Stevens is currently being held in the Smith County Jail.