MARQUETTE TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WZMQ) – A Lake Linden man is facing multiple charges after police say he attempted to solicit a minor for sex.
Erick John Alatalo, 43, is charged with accosting a child for immoral purposes, child sexually abusive activity, and using a computer to commit a crime.
The Michigan State Police 8th District Hometown Security Team initially had contact with Alatalo on June 4, 2023. Then on June 16, a female trooper acted as a decoy at a Marquette Township establishment. Detectives saw Alatalo pull into the parking lot of the establishment where the decoy was set. Police say Alatalo made contact with the decoy and requested she come out. He then got out of his vehicle to approach the decoy’s location. Police took him into custody as he approached the decoy.
Alatalo was arraigned in Marquette County’s 96th District Court on June 20, 2023 and lodged in the Marquette County Jail.
Anyone with information about additional potential victims should contact the Michigan State Police 8th District Headquarters.
The Upper Peninsula Substance Enforcement Team (UPSET), MSP Negaunee Post troopers and detectives, MSP Canine Unit, and the Eighth District Computer Crimes Unit assisted on scene.
