FDLE: Child sex sting suspect fought agents, broke Taser in escape attempt

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Florida Department of Law Enforcement agents arrested a man who they said thought he was meeting a young girl for sex late Thursday afternoon, investigators said.

Investigators said Ryan Mason, 31, thought he was talking to a 12-year-old girl's father, and said he sent child porn during online conversations.

Agents described Mason as a violent child predator.

"If wasn't us, Mr. Mason probably would have met another individual online and probably would have engaged in sexual activity with a child today," said Special Agent Jeffrey Duncan with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.

Agents said Mason drove from the Tampa area to a park near Orlando Executive Airport where he was surprised to find FDLE agents.

According to investigators, Mason attempted to run them over, threw punches and broke a Taser they used on him as he attempted to get away.

"If he was able to fend off six, seven agents with physical resistance, what would he do to a child who can't protect themselves?" asked Duncan.

As Mason was being taken from FDLE headquarters in Orlando to the Orange County Jail, he stopped walking, forcing agents to carry him to a waiting patrol car. Marks that appeared to be from a recent struggle could be seen on the side of his head.

According to investigators, Mason is facing several felony charges including soliciting a minor for sex, traveling to meet a minor to engage in sex, distribution of child porn, and attempted capital sexual battery, along with charges related to his scuffle with law enforcement agents.

Mason remains in jail without bail.

WFTV