Houston, TX – A Houston man has been arrested and charged with Online Solicitation of a Minor, a first-degree felony, following a two-month investigation conducted by the Harris County Precinct 1 Constable’s Office Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Unit.
On Thursday at approximately 8:00 AM, investigators took 42-year-old Lance Anthony Hoffpauir into custody near his residence in the 18500 Block of Egret Bay Blvd. in Southeast Harris County. His arrest was carried out pursuant to a warrant issued by Judge Lance Long of the 183rd Criminal District Court.
Investigation and Allegations
Authorities allege that Hoffpauir engaged in sexually explicit communications with an individual he believed to be a minor through an undisclosed social media platform. However, the recipient of these communications was an undercover officer posing as a teenage girl.
According to investigators, Hoffpauir:
- Initiated contact with the presumed minor.
- Engaged in sexually explicit conversations.
- Sent sexually explicit images and videos.
- Arranged to meet the minor and transport her to his residence for the purpose of engaging in sexual activity.
Additionally, authorities stated that Hoffpauir admitted to communicating with other minors online.
Hoffpauir holds a Texas Teacher Certification (TEA) and informed investigators that he has previously worked as a junior high history teacher in the Houston metropolitan area. He also disclosed that he had volunteered as a church youth leader. At the time of his arrest, Hoffpauir was operating a landscaping business in Houston. He is divorced and has three minor children.
Ongoing Investigation
The Harris County Precinct 1 Constable’s Office urges anyone with information regarding Hoffpauir’s interactions with minors to contact the Internet Crimes Against Children Unit at (713) 222-4929.
Hoffpauir was booked into the Harris County Jail without incident, and no bond has been set at this time.
This case is part of the Houston-Metro Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force’s ongoing efforts to combat crimes against minors. Further updates will be provided as the investigation continues.
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