Christian “CJ” Walden, a former student editor and contributor for OutSFL and OutFAU, was arrested May 26 on two felony charges, according to jail records.

The charges include traveling to meet a child after allegedly using a computer to lure a child for unlawful sexual conduct and use of a two-way communications device to facilitate a felony, both felonies under Florida law. 

Walden was a leader in student organizations at Florida Atlantic University, including Student Government. 

According to the probable cause affidavit, Walden first connected with the decoy through Grindr and later arranged to meet at a Home Depot in Delray Beach. 

“...while messaging Walden on Grindr, Walden was under the impression the decoy was 18. After moving to text messaging, the decoy told Walden that he was actually 13 years old, about to turn 14.” 

The decoy was affiliated with a Palm Beach County-based group that conducts civilian online sting operations by posing as minors online, arranging meetings in public places, and publishing videos of the encounters on social media. 

The police report states Walden traveled to meet “a boy who he knew was underage.” According to the report, investigators said Walden repeatedly stated during questioning that he “made a mistake” and acknowledged he knew the person he was meeting was underage. The report further alleges Walden told investigators he planned to engage in oral sex with the boy. 

As of Wednesday, May 27, Walden remained in jail on bonds totaling $25,000. 

Out South Florida released the following statement: 

“CJ Walden is no longer affiliated with Out South Florida or OutFAU. We are aware of the charges filed against him. We will continue covering the case as a news matter. Our newsroom remains committed to ethical journalism and serving the LGBTQ community.”