A Russell County jury has convicted a local man on felony charges stemming from explicit messages sent to a teenager over social media.

Zachary Grider, of Russell Springs, was found guilty in Russell Circuit Court of using electronic means to induce a minor to engage in sexual activity, a Class C felony.

The conviction follows a December 28, 2024 arrest by Kentucky State Police. Investigators determined Grider used social media to send sexually explicit messages to a 15-year-old victim. 

Following the guilty verdict, the jury recommended a 7½-year prison sentence. Formal sentencing by the circuit judge is scheduled for November 24, 2026.