ESCANABA — Two men have been arrested for attempting to solicit underage prostitutes at a Delta County motel.

On Nov. 12, the Delta County Sheriff’s Office, along with officers from the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, Menominee County Sheriff’s Office, and Escanaba Public Safety Department conducted an undercover operation at the motel. Officers posted advertisements on various websites advertising sex for money. Upon being contacted, an undercover officer posed as a 15-year-old girl and made arrangements to meet with the individuals in person.

Aaron Ross Spalding, 50, of Bark River, was arrested and charged with accosting a minor for immoral purpose, a felony punishable by up to four years in prison; using a computer to commit a crime, punishable by a maximum of four years or more but less than ten years in prison; and felony firearm, punishable by up to two years consecutive to any other term of imprisonment.

Spalding was arraigned on the felony charges Monday. He posted bond after bond was initially set at $20,000 cash or surety, but the bond was amended due to the severity of the charges. The new bond requires Spalding not leave Delta County, not use or possess any controlled substances or alcohol, wear a GPS tether, not visit any “hook up” websites, and not be in the company of anyone under the age of 16. He is also subject to search of person, property and electronic devices to ensure compliance with bond conditions.

The second man arrested as part of the operation, a 34-year-old from Cornell, has not been scheduled for arraignment. It is not the Daily Press’ policy to name those who have not been arraigned, however, the man is expected to be charged with accosting a minor for immoral purpose and using a computer to commit a crime. He was released after posting $10,000 cash or surety bond.