FBI Arrests Presque Isle Man for Allegedly Attempting Child Sex Trafficking
BANGOR, ME – In a significant development, Joseph Maile, a 27-year-old resident of Presque Isle and a registered sex offender, was arrested this week as part of the FBI’s Operation Restore Justice. This nationwide initiative targets individuals accused of sexual crimes against minors.
Maile was apprehended following an investigation that began in January at his former residence on Summer Street in Presque Isle. According to FBI spokesperson Kristen Setera, agents conducted a court-authorized search at the address, following allegations against Maile involving his interactions with a teenager. He has been charged in U.S. District Court in Bangor with attempted sex trafficking of a child, enticement of a minor, and related offenses.
The investigation initiated when a family member of the minor filed a complaint in September 2024, detailing how a stalker named "Joe" had allegedly threatened the child and taken them out of state. FBI Special Agent Craig Mehrmann’s affidavit revealed that Maile had previously been suspected of sexual assault against a minor in 2019.
Interviews with the 15-year-old victim disclosed troubling interactions with Maile, who reportedly threatened the teen while soliciting sexual acts. Additional investigations uncovered several other minors across the U.S. that Maile allegedly contacted via social media.
Maile’s arrest is part of an operation that saw multiple arrests across the nation, with only Maile being captured in Maine. His attorney did not provide a comment regarding the charges.
Acting U.S. Attorney Craig Wolff emphasized the importance of protecting vulnerable children and thanked the FBI and local law enforcement partners for their efforts in the case. The FBI continues to pursue justice for victims of sexual abuse.
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