Fort Collins police recently arrested Nathaniel Strauss for sexually assaulting a young teenager who he met online, the police department said Wednesday.

Strauss, a registered sex offender, faces charges of sexual assault, obscenity to a minor and unlawful sexual contact.

Police said Strauss, 42, initiated a conversation with the victim through a social meetup app and told the victim he was 28.

The two arranged to meet on several occasions and engaged in sexual activity.

One of the victim’s parents contacted police after learning about the interactions.

“Predators often use social apps to find underage victims and engage in grooming behavior, like complimenting them, giving gifts and offering them a place to stay,” said Sgt. Heather Moore.

“This disturbing pattern of behavior often culminates in illegal activity that can result in lasting physical and emotional harm to victims.”

Police believe Strauss might have harmed other underage victims.

Anyone with information about Strauss or the case is asked to contact Det. Laura Knudsen at 970-416-2771.

Tipsters can also remain anonymous by contacting Crime Stoppers of Larimer County at 970-221-6868 or stopcriminals.org.