The story of Robert Kleisinger is a chilling reminder for all parents of the predators that lurk online. It also serves as encouragement – that due diligence can result in rescuing a youngster from a highly dangerous situation, and might even result in putting one of these ghouls in prison.
Kudos to Kleisinger, and to the Abbotsford Police for calling attention to his actions by officially commending him.
Kleisinger’s attention was alerted when he saw a photo of what appeared to be adult man communicating online with his 15-year-old stepdaughter.
The stepfather set up a monitoring program on her computer, and after gathering evidence, he went to police.
As an investigating officer and Kleisinger continued to monitor the conversations, it became apparent the man was grooming the young teen for a sexual relationship.
Reise and the girl not only communicated online, but often met in person. He bought her gifts, such as a bicycle and an iPod, while promising other presents, including a puppy, a cruise when she turned 16, a cellphone and concert tickets.
It was also discovered he had a lengthy criminal history involving property crimes and theft in Canada and the U.S.
Ultimately, the investigation led to the laying of charges, and eventual sentencing in April of Jason (Booda) Reise, 35, for sexual interference and communicating via a computer to lure a child under 16.
He was then handed over to American authorities for parole violations in the States.
A predator has been put behind bars, for a considerable time.
All parents must pay heed to this case, for many more like it exist. There are a host of online creeps out there, waiting to prey on young teens.
Often, all that stands between potential victims and their hunters is an attentive, communicative parent.