Shocking Allegations Lead to Arrest of Boulder Dentist
In a shocking turn of events, a dentist from Colorado has been arrested in Florida on charges of attempting to arrange a sexual encounter with a mother and her eight-year-old daughter. The arrest took place at Palm Beach International Airport on August 9, following a meticulous 10-month investigation by federal agents.
Undercover operation unveils disturbing intentions
Dr. James Jason Atha, 50, from Boulder, Colorado, was apprehended after he allegedly flew to Florida with the intention of meeting what he believed to be a single mother and her young daughter for sex. Unbeknownst to Atha, the “mother” he was communicating with was actually an undercover agent from the Department of Homeland Security.
Federal agents revealed that Atha had engaged in explicit online conversations with the undercover agent, who posed as a mother grooming her daughter with sex toys. According to a federal indictment obtained by The Palm Beach Post, Atha expressed his eagerness to participate in the abuse, stating, “That’s a beautiful thing. I would sooo love to be a part of that.”
Months of explicit conversations
Over the past 10 months, Atha allegedly detailed the sexual acts he wished to perform with the child during several conversations with the undercover agent. In one message, he wrote, “I would love to find mother-daughter to play with.”
When questioned by the agent if he had previously engaged in sexual activities with a mother-daughter duo, Atha reportedly replied, “Unfortunately no,” adding, “I have had so many of what I thought were opportunities, only to get ghosted when it got down to it.”
Despite showing signs of hesitation and suspicion, Atha eventually agreed to travel to Florida. “I am very nervous but serious. In my head I get there and cops are waiting for me,” he wrote.
Arrest at Palm Beach International Airport
Upon his arrival at Palm Beach International Airport, Atha was arrested. According to prosecutors, he had allegedly admitted to flying out to have sex with the woman’s daughter and possessing child sexual abuse images.
During a search warrant execution, agents discovered Atha’s involvement in multiple incest and taboo chat rooms. The indictment also mentions that Atha instructed the undercover agent to dress the girl in “something not all that age appropriate” such as a halter top with “short shorts,” lipstick, and eye shadow. He also mentioned purchasing chocolate-flavored lubricant and condoms for the encounter.
Dr. James Jason Atha has been charged with attempted enticement of a minor, which carries a maximum sentence of life in prison. He is scheduled to appear at a pre-trial detention hearing in South Florida on Friday.
The arrest has sent shockwaves through the community, particularly as Atha was known for his charitable work. He spent time every summer in North Carolina providing free dental care to children and adults who would otherwise not receive treatment.