Madison man convicted of child exploitation

MADISON, Ala. (WAFF) – A Madison man has been convicted by a jury of child exploitation, the U.S. Department of Justice announced Thursday.

DOJ officials said the jury returned a guilty verdict against Anthony Ray Lawrence, 37, of Madison, after three days of testimony.

Lawrence was convicted of attempted coercion and solicitation of a minor.

Officials said evidence presented at the trial between April and May 2023 showed Lawrence used a social media application to contact someone he believed to be a 14-year-old female, who was reportedly an undercover police officer.

Lawrence told the undercover agent that he used the application to meet younger girls.

Lawrence traveled from Madison to Homewood in May 2023 engage in a sexual act with a minor.

Authorities said that when Lawrence was arrested, it was discovered that he had condoms and sexual lubricant on him. He also rented a hotel room nearby.

Officials said anyone who suspects or becomes aware of possible sexual exploitation of a child is encouraged to contact law enforcement.

To alert the FBI Birmingham office, call 205-326-6166. Reports can also be made to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) or online at www.cybertipline.org.

The FBI investigated the case with the help of the Homewood Police Department.

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