WATERFORD, Conn. (WTNH) — A Waterford man was arrested Thursday night as the result of an undercover investigation into allegations of extortion and sexual solicitation of a minor.

When New London police received a tip that Richard A. Bruno, 46, of Shore Road in Waterford, was attempting to extort sexual acts from the tenants of rental properties he’d leased in lieu of cash, the department teamed up with the Connecticut State Police Computer Crimes Unit as well as Waterford police. They launched an undercover investigation jointly, looking into an additional tip that Bruno may have sexually solicited children.

Having arranged a meeting on Thursday involving “sexual acts in exchange for money” online, Bruno went to meet who he believed was a 13-year-old girl, say troopers. Waiting for her arrival, Bruno communicated with her by cell phone, “continually until his apprehension.”

On the same day, troopers obtained a search and seizure warrant for Bruno’s home, where they found further evidence to support Bruno’s charges.

Bruno was charged with criminal attempt at trafficking, sexual assault, enticement, and risking and impairing morals of a minor. Transported to the New London Police Department, he soon posted a $150,000 bond, and is scheduled to appear May 19 in New London.

The investigation is ongoing, and anyone with relevant information is urged to contact State Police Detective Samantha McCord at (203) 427-4062.