Man Charged With Sexual Abuse of Children in Missoula

Missoula, MT (KGVO-AM News) - On October 31, 2023, a member of the Federal Bureau of Investigation Child Exploitation Human Trafficking Task Force was connected to the internet in Missoula. An advertisement was placed on a website known to law enforcement to be used for illicit commercial sex transactions and sex trafficking of adults and children. This advertisement allowed individuals to respond via phone, text, or phone call. 

On November 14th, 2023, the undercover phone number associated with the advertisement received a message from a phone number. This phone number was determined to belong to 64-year-old Manfred Sedlak. Sedlak was informed that he was speaking to a child under 16 years of age. Sedlak indicated his understanding that he was speaking to a child and the person was “underage”.  

Sedlak expressed his fear of encountering law enforcement but continued to pursue a conversation with the child to arrange for an in-person sexual encounter with an agreement to exchange cash. According to court documents, Sedlak discussed receiving oral sex from the child and stated he wanted to shower with her. Sedlak also discussed bringing cash and condoms. 

Roughly two weeks passed and Sedlak had the opportunity to disengage in communications with the child. However, on November 29th, 2023, Sedlak agreed to meet with the child for sex at a rate of $100 an hour at a designated location.  

Sedlak traveled to and arrived at the target location on this date and he was taken into custody without incident. Sedlak was found to be in possession of cash and a cellular phone, which were placed into evidence. A task force officer and other law enforcement personnel attempted to interview Sedlak. Sedlak invoked his Miranda rights, the interview ended, and Sedlak was placed into custody. 

Sedlak is currently being charged with two counts of felony sexual abuse of children - victim under the age of 16. On November 30, 2023, Sedlak made his initial appearance in Missoula Justice Court and his bond was set at $75,000. 

The information in this article was obtained from sources that are publicly viewable.