A Michigan-based Elvis impersonator known for his nationwide performances has been apprehended on serious charges involving a minor. Matthew Chantelois, 45, was arrested at a Pennsylvania motel with a teenage girl who had been reported missing from New York.
State troopers discovered Chantelois, also known by his stage name Matt King, with the 16-year-old at a Motel 6 establishment located off I-90 in Summit Township during the early hours of January 24th, as per reports from GoErie.com. It is reported that officers responded after receiving information from New York State Police regarding the girl, identified as a runaway from Schroon Lake, a small town nestled within the Adirondack region.
The young girl disclosed to authorities that she engaged in sexual activities with Chantelois, consumed alcohol provided by him, and had previously sent him nude images via social media.
Chantelois is now facing charges at the federal level, including allegations of enticing a minor to produce explicit content, transmitting sexually explicit images of a minor electronically, and possession of such materials. Upon the indictment’s release in US District Court in Erie, additional accusations have been brought forward at the state level encompassing corruption of minors, interference with the custody of a child, and providing alcohol to a minor.
Instrumental to the arrest was the technological tracing of Chantelois’ cellphone, which led New York and Pennsylvania law enforcement directly to his location at the motel.
The evolving situation remains a developing story as investigations continue, with court proceedings expected to follow. The case underlines the caution required in safe internet practices and the vigilance necessary for the protection of minors.