Retired Airline Pilot with Phoenix Connections Arrested: Police Seek More Sex Crime Victims

Authorities have arrested Ralph Bledsoe, a 68-year-old retired airline pilot, as part of a crackdown on online child predators, revealing disturbing allegations of possible nationwide victimization.

The Aurora Police Department announced Thursday that Bledsoe was apprehended on Tuesday after traveling to an Aurora hotel, believing he was meeting a minor for sexual activity. He now faces multiple charges, including internet luring of a child and attempted sexual assault.

While Bledsoe has no prior criminal record, police discovered indications of past sexual relationships with minors in cities such as Denver, Phoenix, and Pennsylvania. Having traveled from Canada for this planned encounter, Bledsoe’s case raises significant alarms about potential additional victims given his extensive travel history.

“The nature of Bledsoe’s profession and the likelihood of prior offenses heighten our concern regarding his potential victims across the country,” stated Seth Robertson, lieutenant of the Aurora Police Department’s Special Victims Section. He emphasized the ongoing investigation, highlighting that detectives are collaborating with various agencies at the local, state, and federal levels to uncover further incidents and provide justice for any possible victims.

Authorities urge anyone with information related to Bledsoe’s activities or possible victims to contact Metro Denver Crime Stoppers at 720-913-7867. Tips can be submitted anonymously, with the possibility of a reward up to $2,000.

Additionally, the operation led to the arrest of Gregory Thomas Daniels, a 39-year-old resident of Aurora, who was detained on April 2 under similar charges after attempting to meet a minor.

This multi-agency operation involved collaborations among the Aurora Police, Longmont Police, Homeland Security Investigations, and other local law enforcement entities.

Mark Hildebrand, chief of the Aurora Police Department’s Investigations Division, expressed deep concern about the crimes targeting children. He praised the concerted efforts of law enforcement in addressing these serious offenses and ensuring community safety.