GALVESTON – The Galveston Police Department said it arrested a 70-year-old registered sex offender Saturday after an investigation into the alleged online solicitation of a person he believed to be a 13-year-old girl.

According to the department, officers responded at about 11:43 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 31, to the 400 block of Avenue E after a concerned citizen requested assistance. The caller told officers he had identified a man, John Thomas, who was attempting to engage in sexual conduct with a 13-year-old.

Investigators said Thomas allegedly had sexually explicit conversations with the caller, who had presented himself as a minor. Police said Thomas agreed to meet the purported 13-year-old and attempted to arrange an in-person meeting for sexual activity.

The investigation led officers to Thomas’ apartment, where they made contact with him. Police said Thomas acknowledged sending the messages and admitted he believed he was communicating with a 13-year-old girl. Officers secured evidence at the scene for further investigation.

Officers also confirmed during the investigation that Thomas is a registered sex offender, according to the department.

After consulting with the Galveston County District Attorney’s Office, police obtained authorization to charge Thomas, of Galveston, with online solicitation of a minor. His bond was set at $150,000, and he was taken to the Galveston County Jail.