Staff Writer
MARTINS FERRY The Martins Ferry Police Department arrested five men on importuning charges after a months-long investigation.
Police Chief John McFarland on Thursday said his department levied several charges against the men, who allegedly believed they were soliciting girls online.
“The investigation was started by the officer creating a social media account posing as a juvenile female,” McFarland said. “In doing so charges have been brought against five local residents. I give a big thank-you to the officer who investigated these cases and to the Belmont County Prosecutor’s Office, and the Moundsville Police Department for their assistance.”