NWI Predator Catchers Tip Leads To Child Solicitation Charges Against LaPorte Man
Wyatt W. Messer, 20, of LaPorte, is facing felony charges after authorities say he attempted to meet who he believed was a 13-year-old girl for sex following an online conversation uncovered during an investigation involving NWI Predator Catchers.
According to court documents, on March 1, 2026, a Jasper County Sheriff’s Sergeant met with a member of NWI Predator Catchers at the Dollar General located at 3898 W. State Road 10 in Wheatfield. The individual showed the officer Snapchat messages from the username “Wyatt_Messer19.”
Investigators say the messages show Messer communicating with a decoy who stated she was 13 years old and would soon turn 14. Authorities say Messer later arranged to meet the person he believed was the girl at a Casey’s gas station in Wheatfield.
Authorities responded to the location where they located a truck backed into a parking spot on the west side of the building with the engine running. Officers made contact with the driver, who was identified as Wyatt Messer. According to court documents, Messer acknowledged he had come to the location to meet the girl.
During a tow inventory of the vehicle, authorities reported locating a loaded Ruger 9mm handgun in the center console and two half cases of Busch Light beer on the rear passenger floorboard. Court documents also state Messer was out on bond in LaPorte County for a residential entry case at the time of the incident.
Charges filed March 3,2026:
• Child Solicitation — Level 4 Felony
• Unlawful Carrying of a Handgun — Class A Misdemeanor
• Minor in Possession of Alcohol — Class C Misdemeanor
