Oxford Man Charged with Enticement of a Child
Oxford, MS – In a concerning development, a 37-year-old man from Oxford has been arrested and charged with enticement of a child following an investigation initiated by the Oxford Police Department. The arrest took place on Tuesday after a citizen alerted authorities to a potential crime.
Details of the Investigation
According to the police, the Lafayette County Metro Narcotics Unit, along with the Oxford Police Department, began looking into the matter earlier in the day. Acting promptly on the report received from the citizen, officers conducted further inquiries which eventually led them to consult with the District Attorney’s Office. This collaboration resulted in the timely arrest of Michael Anthony Smith. He is currently facing serious accusations related to the enticement of a minor.
Upon his arrest, Smith was taken to the Lafayette County Detention Center. He is expected to have a bond set by the Municipal Court judge, although that is yet to be determined. The specifics surrounding the allegations remain under wraps as the investigation is still ongoing.
Employment and Campus Restrictions
Smith is employed as an academic advisor at the University of Mississippi. Following his arrest, a university spokesman confirmed that Smith was placed on leave as of Tuesday evening. In addition, he has been prohibited from being on campus pending the outcome of the investigation.
Ongoing Investigation
The Oxford community is urged to remain vigilant. The Oxford Police Department is currently gathering all relevant information regarding the case. They have requested that anyone with additional insights or information about the incident reach out to them at 662-232-2400.
Community Impact
Such incidents can create a ripple effect of concern in local communities, especially among parents and guardians. The enticement of a child is a grave offense that affects not only the individuals involved but also the wider community. As more details unfold, it highlights the importance of community awareness and proactive measures in safeguarding children.
The situation remains fluid and further updates are expected as investigators proceed with their work. Community members are encouraged to stay informed and participate in any ongoing discussions about safety and child protection initiatives.
In the meantime, the Oxford Police Department continues to assert their commitment to provide a safe environment for all residents. Authorities remind everyone that the cooperation of the community is crucial in tackling and preventing such heinous acts from occurring.
Conclusion
As we await further developments in this case, the focus will remain on child safety and ensuring justice for all involved. The local authorities are intent on providing transparency as information becomes available. Meanwhile, community members are advised to remain aware and informed about the implications of this serious charge as discussions continue in Oxford.
Author: STAFF HERE OXFORD WRITER
The OXFORD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOxford.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Oxford, Lafayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Oxford Film Festival, Double Decker Arts Festival, and University of Mississippi football games. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce and the University of Mississippi, plus leading businesses in education and retail that power the local economy such as Ole Miss Athletics and Square Books. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Mississippi's dynamic landscape.
