‘Significant concerns:’ Colorado airline pilot may have abused kids in Phoenix, police say

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An airline pilot who may have had sexual relationships with kids in Phoenix was arrested on April 10 in Aurora, Colorado.

Ralph Edward Bledsoe, 68, may have victimized children throughout the country, according to the Aurora Police Department. He was arrested and accused of internet luring, sexual exploitation and attempted sexual assault of a child after he visited an Aurora hotel believing he was meeting a minor, police said.

Prior to the meeting, Bledsoe mailed gifts including lingerie and toys, that the investigators setting up the sting said they received.

Bledsoe, from a small town about 30 miles from Colorado Springs, does not have any prior criminal record, but detectives believe he might have abused minors in Denver, Pennsylvania and Phoenix.

“Bledsoe being an airline pilot and the possibility of previous sexual relationships with underaged victims raises significant concerns about the potential of there being victims throughout the country,” said Seth Robertson, lieutenant of the Aurora Police Department Special Victims Section. “His arrest does not mean this investigation is over. Our detectives are working diligently with local, state and federal partners throughout the country to try to identify additional victims and to ensure they receive the justice they deserve.”

Police asked that anyone who might know about Bledsoe’s travels and illegal activities call Metro Denver Crime Stoppers at 720-913-7867. Tipsters can be anonymous and might get a reward of up to $2,000.