June 24, 2022 9:00 a.m. 

A Merlin man was jailed for alleged online sex crimes by Myrtle Creek Police on Thursday.

Detective Keven Taggart said on June 9th 49-year old Mark Rockwell allegedly began an inappropriate online communication with a juvenile female. Taggart said during the course of the conversation, Rockwell allegedly agreed to meet with the juvenile in Myrtle Creek for sexual activity.

Thursday night at approximately 6:30 p.m. Rockwell was contacted by MCPD at Evergreen Park. Following evidence collection and an interview, Rockwell was transported to the Douglas County Jail. He was charged with first and second-degree counts of online sexual corruption of a child and for luring a minor. Bail was set at $200,000.

Taggart said MCPD was assisted by the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office.

Taggart said MCPD would like to remind parents to be attentive to what their child is doing online. Be sure to monitor internet and device usage. Contact police immediately if anything inappropriate is seen.