NEWPORT, Michigan — Authorities in Monroe County arrested a 58-year-old Newport man on March 18, 2025, following a month-long investigation by the Violent Internet Predator Exploitation Response (VIPER) team, according to a statement released Wednesday, March 19, 2025. Sheriff Troy Goodnough confirmed the Newport man arrested was Silvio Berge, caught after targeting detectives online.
The investigation kicked off when VIPER detectives were groomed and solicited for sexual activity over the internet. They pinpointed Berge, a German citizen in the U.S. on a visa, as the suspect. The Monroe County Prosecutor’s Office authorized a two-count felony warrant, and the Newport man arrested faced arraignment on March 19 in the 1st District Court. Charges include children – accosting for immoral purposes and computers – internet communication to commit a crime, with bond set at $200,000 with conditions.
The United States Border Patrol was notified to examine Berge’s immigration status. Posted 59 minutes ago by Monroe County Reporters, the update offered no further details on the online exchanges. No conflicting accounts have surfaced, though Berge’s current detention status remains undisclosed.
This Newport man arrested reflects VIPER’s ongoing mission, with 31 cases since 2021, including 12 in 2023, per 13abc.com. The Monroe County investigation underscores a commitment to community safety.
