Odessa Man Reports Financial Dispute, Gets Arrested in Child Exploitation Case

ODESSA, TX — The Odessa Police Department has arrested two people in connection with an ongoing child exploitation investigation.

According to police, 72-year-old Ron Inge and 34-year-old Heather Russell were taken into custody on Feb. 26. Inge faces a charge of child grooming, a third-degree felony, while Russell was charged with attempted promotion of prostitution, a second-degree felony.

Authorities said the investigation began after Inge contacted police regarding a financial dispute with Russell. Police determined that Inge and Russell were acquainted, and Inge claimed Russell had taken over $4,000 from him.

Further investigation revealed that Inge and Russell allegedly arranged for Russell’s juvenile daughter to engage in sexual conduct with Inge in exchange for money. Police stated Russell allegedly used the agreement to leverage additional money from Inge.

Both suspects were taken into custody without incident. Police said the investigation is ongoing, and additional charges may be filed.