Former Portland Restaurant Manager Convicted of Sexually Exploiting Teen Job Applicant
A former restaurant manager in Portland, Tennessee, has been convicted on multiple charges related to the grooming and sexual exploitation of a 16-year-old girl who had applied for a job at the establishment he managed. The verdict came down on February 12 following a three-day jury trial in Sumner County Criminal Court.
Prosecutors laid out a disturbing timeline of events that began in October 2023, when 42-year-old Landon Justin Long received a job application from the teenage victim. Although her parents later decided against allowing her to work at the restaurant, Long continued to pursue contact with the girl. Under the pretense of addressing her parents' concerns about employment, he initiated a relationship that quickly veered into dangerous and criminal territory.
According to testimony and digital evidence presented during the trial, Long used a series of manipulative tactics commonly associated with grooming. He took the teen out to eat, bought her gifts, and began sending her sexually explicit images and videos of himself.
Over time, he pressured her into sending him nude images via Snapchat. The relationship was built on calculated manipulation, with Long exploiting his perceived authority and the girl's trust.
Concerns raised by the victim’s friends ultimately brought the situation to light. They alerted school officials, who then contacted law enforcement.
Portland Police Department Lt. James Bartolotta led the investigation, which began in March 2024.
After gathering digital evidence, the case was presented to a Sumner County Grand Jury.
The jury found Long guilty on several serious charges: two counts of especially aggravated sexual exploitation of a minor, one count of sexual exploitation of a minor, three counts of sexual exploitation of a minor by electronic means, statutory rape by an authority figure, and aggravated statutory rape.
Judge Dee David Gay immediately revoked Long’s bond following the conviction. Sentencing is scheduled for April 17.
Due to prior felony convictions-including a robbery charge for which he had recently served prison time-Long faces up to 56 years behind bars. The vast majority of that sentence, if imposed, would be served without the possibility of parole, probation, or early release.
He will also be required to register as a sex offender.
In a statement following the conviction, District Attorney General Thomas Dean credited the courage of the victim, the investigative work of the Portland Police Department, and the support of advocacy group Ashley’s Place. He also acknowledged the efforts of Victim-Witness Coordinator Sally Ann Pirtle, who provided critical support to the victim and her family throughout the legal process.
Dean emphasized the seriousness of the case, noting that Long had no legitimate connection to the victim beyond her job application. He pointed out that Long was on active felony probation when the crimes occurred, raising serious concerns about how he was able to attain a position of authority in a public-facing role.
The DA made it clear his office intends to pursue the maximum penalty, stating that Long poses a continued threat to the community and especially to minors. The case underscores the importance of vigilance in protecting young people from predators who may use positions of trust or authority to exploit them.
This conviction sends a strong message: in Sumner County, there is zero tolerance for those who prey on minors.