A 55-year-old Columbia Falls man posted bail after being arrested and charged with online sexual abuse of a child. The “child” was a Flathead County sheriff’s detective posing as a 13-year-old girl on a chat line.

Alan Burke faces up to 100 years or life in prison and a fine of $10,000 if convicted. He was arrested Aug. 16 and posted a $100,000 bond four days later. He pleaded not guilty on Sept. 6.

According to court documents, Det. Sgt. Jeanne Parker was acting in an undercover capacity in an online chat room on June 11 when Burke contacted her and asked how old she was. Parker responded by say 13 years old and asked how old Burke was. He said he was 55.

During subsequent online conversations, Burke allegedly asked Parker how she looked in a swimsuit and what size bra she wore. He also allegedly said he was a “dirty minded old man” and described sex acts he’d like to perform.

When Parker asked whether her age would be a problem, Burke allegedly said no. About two weeks after the contact was initiated, Burke allegedly asked Parker about orgasms and masturbation.

During the course of the online conversations, Burke allegedly asked about meeting and developing a sexual relationship. He allegedly told Parker she would be his “sex slave” and would perform sex acts on him and others. He also cautioned Parker to be discreet or he might be arrested and sent to jail.

When Parker made contact with Burke as a sheriff’s officer, Burke allegedly admitted asking about masturbation and directing her to watch pornographic videos.