A Staten Island man was arrested for the second time in two months after allegedly pretending to be a teenage boy online to solicit sexual images from underage girls. He was charged with attempted sexual exploitation of a child.

The FBI said Ryan Behar, 42, is a registered sex offender with a “history of criminal misconduct involving minors.” From September to October 2020, he allegedly posed as a teen to make lewd requests to a 16-year-old girl on Instagram. Behar was accused of pornographic activity during live video calls and solicitation of sexually explicit photos and videos from the girl.

The NYPD first arrested Behar in January when he tried to meet one of the victims face to face. However, he was released and continued to communicate with minors online. According to authorities, the victims’ ages ranged from 10 to 17 years old. He also allegedly tried to lure a 12-year-old girl to the Staten Island Mall.

Behar’s attorney claimed his client has struggled with “serious mental deficiencies” his entire life. His parents had bought plane tickets to Minnesota to admit him to a sex offender treatment program. However, the judge denied the lawyer’s bail request for Behar, stating that not enough information about the program was provided.

Behar was arraigned in Brooklyn federal court. He faces 15 to 30 years in prison if convicted.

If you being accused of committing an internet sex crime, your reputation and freedom are on the line. Brill Legal Group has experience developing strong defense strategies for clients in New York. Contact our criminal defense attorneys today to find out how we can help you.