Arizona Man Pleads Not Guilty to Federal Child Enticement Charges in Missoula

MISSOULA — A 71-year-old Arizona man with ties to Missoula pleaded not guilty Tuesday to federal charges of attempting to entice a minor into sexual activity.

Manuel Flores appeared for arraignment in Missoula Federal District Court before U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto on one count of attempted coercion and enticement of a minor. He remains detained pending further proceedings.

According to the indictment, Flores allegedly used the internet and a cellphone between June 2024 and August 17, 2025, to attempt to persuade, induce, entice and coerce an individual under 18 years old to engage in sexual activity. The alleged crimes occurred in Missoula, Missoula County, and elsewhere, including Arizona.

The charge carries severe penalties: 10 years to life in prison, a $250,000 fine, and five years to a lifetime of supervised release.

“The charging document is merely an accusation and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt,” the U.S. Attorney’s Office stated in its press release.

The FBI’s Montana Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force and the Missoula County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian Lowney is prosecuting the case.

Federal authorities are seeking additional information from the public regarding possible crimes committed by Flores or any physical or online exploitation of children. Anyone with information is encouraged to call the FBI Salt Lake City Field Office at (801) 579-1400 or submit tips online at tips.fbi.gov.