Cortland sex offender with criminal history arrested in prostitution sting

A registered sex offender from Cortland was arrested Wednesday in Salem as part of an undercover operation conducted by the Mahoning Valley Human Trafficking Task Force.  

Todd Kniseley, 36, pleaded not guilty Thursday in Columbiana County Municipal Court to charges of engaging in prostitution, possessing criminal tools, and obstructing official business, according to court records. He is scheduled for another court hearing on June 2.

The arrest affidavit filed by the task force details that Kniseley allegedly used a phone to request sexual conduct for cash from an undercover agent. Investigators say Kniseley drove to Salem to meet the agent.

When approached by Salem police, Kniseley allegedly fled on foot approximately 60 yards before being arrested.

According to the affidavit, Kniseley has a criminal history, including convictions for unlawful sexual conduct with a minor, sex offender failing to notify change of address, fleeing and eluding, disorderly conduct, violation of a protection order, driving under suspension, and possession of a controlled substance.

The affidavit further reveals that Kniseley is currently registered as a Tier II sex offender due to a prior conviction in Trumbull County for unlawful sexual conduct with a 13-year-old female. He is also a federally convicted felon for failure to register as a sex offender.

In September and October 2016, the U.S. Marshals Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force arrested Kniseley on state warrants for felonious assault on a peace officer, probation violation, and resisting arrest, as well as a federal warrant for alleged violations of the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act.