Moscow man gets three months in jail for trying to hook up with underage girl

COLFAX – Prior to being sentenced to three months in jail Friday, a Moscow man said he hopes his efforts to hook up with a fake underage girl ultimately will make him a better man.

Stephen Hoffman, 26, pleaded guilty last month to one felony charge of communicating with a minor for immoral purposes after responding to a Craigslist “Casual Encounters” ad from someone purporting to be a 15-year-old girl.

“I’ve learned a lot about myself through this experience,” he told Superior Court Judge David Frazier on Friday. “I’m deeply embarrassed and ashamed of myself. It’s time for me to grow up and start laying a foundation for my future. This mistake will let me be a stronger person and turn my life around.”

The online ad was part of a sting operation by the Colfax Police Department. After corresponding for a few months, court documents indicate Hoffman arranged to meet the girl. He was arrested after showing up at the meeting site.

Frazier, who was filling in for Judge Gary Libey, said Hoffman’s comments, along with his plans for completing college and getting a job after he gets out of jail, “speak highly of you.”

“With so many sex offenses, and other offenses, excuses are made,” Frazier said. “You’ve taken responsibility, and I appreciate that you’re embarrassed and ashamed. It makes me feel confident that you aren’t going to do something like this again.”

Hoffman was sentenced to 90 days in jail, as well as three years community custody and $800 in fines and costs.