Enterprise, Ala. — A federal jury has found 26-year-old Justin William Gifford, of Enterprise, Ala., guilty of attempting to exploit a minor following a two-day trial held in mid-April 2026 in Tallahassee.
According to prosecutors, the case stems from a June 2025 undercover operation. Authorities said Gifford began communicating online with someone he believed was a 15-year-old. Investigators later confirmed the individual was an undercover officer.
Court records show the conversations became explicit over a short period of time. Prosecutors said Gifford sent obscene images and made plans to meet the minor in person.
Authorities said Gifford then traveled from Enterprise to Panama City Beach, Florida, where he was arrested at a prearranged meeting location.
Investigators later examined his phone and confirmed the messages and images connected to the case, according to officials.
Gifford was found guilty of multiple charges, including attempted enticement of a minor, transferring obscene material to a minor and traveling to engage in illicit sexual conduct.
He faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and could receive up to life. Sentencing is scheduled for June 25, 2026.
