PRINCETON, WV – A Princeton man has been sentenced to 30 years in prison for the enticement of a minor, with additional lifetime supervised parole and a restitution order of $7,200. Eric Shawn Phillips, 43, admitted to coercing a minor into engaging in sexual behavior through explicit messages sent via text and social media apps between April 19, 2021 and February 17, 2022. Additionally, Phillips is required to register as a sex offender.

The case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, an initiative by the Department of Justice aimed at combating child sexual exploitation and abuse. United States Attorney Will Thompson commended the investigative work of the Mercer County Sheriff’s Department and the coordination with the Mercer County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office.

The severity of the sentence reflects the disturbing nature of the case and the reprehensible actions of the defendant, according to United States Attorney Will Thompson. The sentence is intended to serve as a deterrent and to deliver justice for the victim.

This sentencing send a strong message about the consequences of exploiting minors and the commitment to safeguarding children from such predatory behavior. The outcome of this case highlights the importance of vigilance and coordination between law enforcement agencies to protect vulnerable members of the community.