Gastonia ‘Ghostbusters’ impersonator accused of trying to have sex with child

A Gastonia man who moonlighted as a “Ghostbusters” character at birthday parties and weddings is accused of meeting a person he thought was a 14-year-old child for sex, authorities said.

Michael Robert Geressy, 36, was dressed like a character from the “Men in Black” movies when he showed up at the meeting location and was arrested by Lincolnton detectives, according to WBTV, the Observer’s news partner. He was driving a 1987 Ford Crown Victoria made to look like the Ecto-1 vehicle used in the “Ghostbusters” movies.

Geressy was charged with felony soliciting a child for an unlawful sex act and appearing to meet the child. He was released from Lincoln County jail on $75,000 bail.

Geressy went by his nickname, “Doc,” when he entertained at parties. He has created costumes and cos-played for movies such as “Ghostbusters,” “Indiana Jones,” and “Star Trek.”

Geressy is also an instructor at the Connecticut School of Broadcasting’s Charlotte campus and the founder of Carolina Ghostbusters. The group does appearances, along with their Ecto-1, starting at $100 an hour. They do charity rides, birthday parties and have two ordained ministers who can officiate weddings.

According to WBTV, Lincoln County authorities posed as a child on social media. Geressy discussed meeting the 14-year-old in Lincolnton for sex.

Police said the case is still under investigation and more charges are possible. Investigators are trying to determine if Geressy had any other inappropriate or illegal contact with children.

Anyone with additional information is asked to call the Lincolnton Police Department at 704-736-8900 or Crime Stoppers at 704-736-8909, where a reward is possible.

This story was originally published June 15, 2016 at 7:59 AM with the headline "Gastonia ‘Ghostbusters’ impersonator accused of trying to have sex with child."