A 73-year-old man is behind bars in Louisiana, accused of a shocking attempt to purchase a baby girl from her own mother at a local auction house.
Undercover Sting Leads to Arrest
Howell Gene Penton was taken into custody on Saturday following a covert operation by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office and local police. The investigation was launched on November 26 after authorities received a report about the alleged incident. Just three days later, detectives orchestrated an undercover sting, resulting in Penton's arrest without incident.
The Alleged Offer at Angie Auction House
The sheriff's office states that the alleged crime occurred last month at the Angie Auction House in Angie, Louisiana. Penton is accused of approaching a mother and propositioning her to sell him her 10-month-old daughter. Specific details on how he made the approach or any prior relationship between the two have not been made public by investigators.
Charges and Custody
Penton now faces a formal charge of attempting to buy a minor child. He is currently being held at the Washington Parish Jail, with bail set at $200,000, according to official jail records. The case highlights ongoing concerns about child exploitation and the lengths law enforcement will go to intervene.
The swift action by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office demonstrates a zero-tolerance approach to crimes against children. The use of an undercover sting operation was crucial in securing an arrest in this deeply disturbing case.
