Belvidere, Illinois Man Charged After Traveling To Wheatfield To Meet Person He Believed Was 14
Zachary Moritz, 31, of Belvidere, Illinois, is charged in Jasper County, after authorities say he traveled to Wheatfield to meet a person he believed to be 14 years old for sexual activity. Court records indicate no actual minor was involved.
According to court documents, on February 21, 2026 at approximately 5:59 p.m., the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office received a report that a 31-year-old male was attempting to meet what he believed to be a 14-year-old at Wheatfield Lanes. A Snapchat conversation showed Moritz initiating contact and communicating with the person while discussing age and meeting arrangements.
Authorities say Moritz then made plans to drive to Indiana, stating the trip would take about two and a half hours, and agreed to meet at Wheatfield Lanes in Wheatfield.
According to the affidavit, a deputy located Moritz parked at Wheatfield Lanes. Moritz stated he was there to meet someone and was taken into custody. During a search incident to arrest, a white iPhone and a box of condoms were located on his person.
Charges filed February 26,2026:
• Child Solicitation (Level 4 Felony)
• Child Solicitation (Level 5 Felony)
