Florida man caught trying to travel to Estonia to have sex with a 13-year-old

Austin Hibbert, a 25-year-old from Tallahassee, Florida, pleaded guilty to several felonies for attempting to travel to Estonia to engage in sexual activity with a 13-year-old girl. Between May 2023 and August 2024, he communicated daily with the minor on a gaming website, sending her explicit videos and expressing his intent to meet her for sexual purposes. Law enforcement intercepted him at Tallahassee International Airport on August 12, 2024, as he attempted to board a flight, where they found his passport and condoms in his carry-on. U. S.

Attorney Heekin praised the collaboration of international and domestic law enforcement in thwarting such predatory actions. Hibbert faces a minimum of 10 years in prison and a maximum sentence of life. His sentencing is scheduled for October 27, 2025. The case underscores the persistent danger posed by online predators to children. Parents are urged to remain vigilant about their children's online interactions to prevent similar situations.