(6-16-23) Ralph Eugene Pickering (57) of Celina was indicted by a Mercer County Grand Jury on a 5th degree felony charge of importuning. The offenses took place between September 1st, 2022 to March 31st, 2023.

Pickering, was taken into custody Thursday by the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office and is being held without bond in the Mercer County Adult Detention Center pending a Common Pleas Court appearance.

What is the legal definition of importune?

Importuning is a criminal sex offense involving the act of soliciting a minor to engage in sexual activity.

Up to five years in prison. Up to $10,000 fine. Permanent sex offender registration. Removal of child custody rights.