Aztec Man Arrested in Child-sex Sting

Courtesy: San Juan Co. Sheriff's Office

Between the dates of January 18th and January 30th, 2019, Crane initiated a sexual conversation online, with a 13-year-old female and made plans to meet her for sexual intercourse.

From the San Juan Co. Sheriff's office:

On January 30th, 2019, David Crane (61) of Aztec, NM was arrested on the charges of child solicitation by electronic communication device and meets child (child 13-16) and child solicitation by electronic communication device (child 13-16). Detectives with the San Juan County Sheriff’s Office, as members of the New Mexico Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, continue to be proactive in targeting online child predators, making this the third ICAC arrest in just over one month. Between the dates of January 18th and January 30th, 2019, Crane initiated a sexual conversation online, with a 13-year-old female and made plans to meet her for sexual intercourse. On January 30th, 2019, Crane arranged to meet the young female in Aztec and was immediately arrested by a deputy with the San Juan County Sheriff’s Office. When the suspect was taken into custody, it was observed that he had the button of his pants unbuttoned and his genitalia visible. Detectives interviewed Crane and received a full confession after his arrest. The San Juan County Sheriff’s Office wants to remind the public that the internet provides many opportunities for pedophiles to prey on children and to be aware of who their kids are communicating with online. The public is encouraged to report suspected child predators and any suspicious activity to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC)
1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678).

More from Local News

  • Two Bicyclists Killed on N36 in alleged DWI Crash

    The Sheriff's Office Traffic Reconstruction Team responded to conduct the investigation into the fatal crash. Two persons on bicycles (an adult male and an adult female) were struck by a 2006 Ford Ranger driven by Jaron Todecheeny of Aztec, NM. Both bicyclists died at the scene.

  • One Dead After House Fire Saturday Afternoon

    Second occupant in critical condition; Identity of victims not yet released.

  • First Native American President Named at Fort Lewis College

    As Vice President of Diversity Affairs at FLC, Heather Shotton has played a pivotal role in advancing a culture of belonging and enhancing student access and success. In addition to her work in diversity affairs, she serves as Acting Dean of Student Engagement, overseeing more than 70 staff members supporting student well-being and success.

  • Arrest Made after Durango Rec Center Damaged by Gunfire

    The initial call was received at 5:23 AM. The individual was identified from video surveillance. The male was contacted by Durango Police Department Patrol and is now in custody. He has been identified as Joe Brinkerhoff, a resident of the City of Durango. Due to a prior incident, Joe Brinkerhoff was trespassed from the property and his Rec Center privileges were suspended.

  • Police Arrest Woman for Husband's Fatal Stabbing 5 years ago

    After a thorough and ongoing investigation by detectives and working with the district attorney's office, a thorough review of the case was conducted, and the decision to proceed with criminal charges was made. A warrant was issued to charge Heather Fernandez-Hoefer. She was taken into custody without incident on April 1, 2025.

  • Update: Arrest Made in Fatal Shooting

    Upon arrival, deputies made contact with multiple individuals including juveniles and young adults and located a deceased individual identified as Samuell Tariq Liggins, age 20.

On KSJE Now:

Today's Weather

  • Farmington, NM

    Mist

    High: 73°F | Low: 34°F

  • Durango, CO

    Sunny intervals

    High: 66°F | Low: 30°F

  • Shiprock, NM

    Sunny intervals

    High: 70°F | Low: 36°F

  • Cortez, CO

    Sunny intervals

    High: 64°F | Low: 30°F

  • Santa Fe, NM

    Mist

    High: 72°F | Low: 37°F