Michael Bruce Gillis, a resident of Eden Prairie, has been charged with coercion and enticement of a minor and production of child pornography. The charges were announced by Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick following an investigation that began with a report received by the Mounds View Police Department regarding a missing 15-year-old male.
The criminal complaint details that on March 2, 2025, family members of the missing juvenile found recent online communications between him and someone using the name "Nick Miller." In these exchanges, the victim identified himself as being young and in high school, to which "Nick Miller" expressed interest in younger individuals. Their conversation progressed to sharing explicit messages and photos, leading to plans for a physical meeting arranged via Uber.
Law enforcement conducted a welfare check at the location provided by "Nick Miller," where they found the victim walking nearby. The victim reported being sexually assaulted by "Nick Miller" but managed to escape when his assailant fell asleep. Officers later apprehended Michael Bruce Gillis at this address, confirming his identity as "Nick Miller." Further records revealed two additional cases involving child exploitation allegations against Gillis in Minnesota and Florida.
Acting U.S. Attorney Kirkpatrick emphasized the seriousness of such crimes: “As this case demonstrates, child predators are clear and present dangers to the children of Minnesota.” She assured that federal resources would be used to ensure predators face significant consequences.
Special Agent Alvin M. Winston Sr., from FBI Minneapolis, described the case's allegations as horrific due to their predatory nature and impact on victims: “The FBI and our law enforcement partners will use every resource available to ensure those who prey on the most vulnerable are brought to justice.”
Gillis is currently detained after being charged in U.S. District Court with coercion and enticement of a minor and production of child pornography.
The investigation involved collaboration between multiple agencies including the FBI, Eden Prairie Police Department, Mounds View Police Department, and Bloomington Police Department. Bloomington Police Chief Booker Hodges praised this cooperation: "I am glad we are working with our federal partners to get these child predators off the street."
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jordan L. Sing is leading the prosecution for this case.
It should be noted that a complaint is merely an allegation; Gillis is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt in court.
