safety
Midland probationer's phone search leads to online solicitation of minor charge, arrest
By Gabriella Meza at Yourbasin / Big 2 KMID + Fox 24 KPEJ (Nexstar)
· June 24, 2026
· 1 min read
Matthew Jordan Pruitt, 36, was arrested and charged with online solicitation of a minor after a probation compliance check revealed he had been exchanging sexually explicit messages with an underage girl.
Why this matters in The Odessa
The arrest of Matthew Jordan Pruitt brings attention to the critical work of local law enforcement in monitoring probationers and protecting vulnerable populations, particularly children. In Ector County, where Pruitt was arrested, the collaboration between probation officers and police is crucial in preventing and detecting crimes like online solicitation of minors. This case also underscores the need for continued vigilance and education in the community about the risks of online exploitation and the importance of reporting suspicious activity. As the Permian Basin area continues to grow and attract new residents, it is vital that local authorities remain proactive in addressing these types of crimes and ensuring public safety. The community can expect law enforcement to remain vigilant in their efforts to identify and apprehend individuals who would seek to harm children, and to work closely with prosecutors to secure convictions in these cases.
About this story
Original reporting by Yourbasin / Big 2 KMID + Fox 24 KPEJ (Nexstar) . The Odessa surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit Yourbasin / Big 2 KMID + Fox 24 KPEJ (Nexstar) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: safety ·
Published: June 24, 2026 ·
Source: Yourbasin / Big 2 KMID + Fox 24 KPEJ (Nexstar) ·
Reading time: 1 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Matthew Jordan Pruitt, 36, was arrested and charged with online solicitation of a minor after a probation compliance check revealed he had been exchanging sexually explicit messages with an underage girl.
When was this published? This article was first published on June 24, 2026 by Yourbasin / Big 2 KMID + Fox 24 KPEJ (Nexstar) and curated for The Odessa readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Gabriella Meza at Yourbasin / Big 2 KMID + Fox 24 KPEJ (Nexstar). To learn more about how The Odessa selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more safety coverage from The Odessa, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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