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87-Year-Old Michigan Man Cited For Soliciting A Prostitute, Oldest 'John' Ever

DETROIT (CBS Detroit) He said he approached the young woman because he thought he knew her from church, but police say there's no doubt Howard Arthur Klein, 87, tried to solicit her for sex.

The woman was actually a police detective working undercover, and Klein was arrested. At 87, many believe he's the oldest person cited with such a crime in Michigan history.

"I talked to this gal from St. Pete's and Paul's," Klein said in a TV interview, explaining what happened from his perspective in an interview with WOOD-TV. "I thought that I knew her. I didn't say nothing to her. I just said, 'Hi,' and nothing else and I left."

Kent County decided this week not to pursue charges against him.

"I could see no compelling reason to continue to prosecute Mr. Klein on the ticket he was issued for accosting and soliciting," said county Prosecutor William Forsyth, according to MLive. "He is 87 years old with absolutely no criminal record. In addition, I am told he struggles to some degree with dementia."

Forsyth went on to say a spotless record for 87 years had "earned him a pass."

The incident unfolded at about 10 p.m. June 26, near Broadway Street NW and Leonard Avenue, not far from Klein's home. Residents have been complaining about prostitution in the area, and police said they will continue stings to keep the "johns" at bay.

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