Authorities in South Carolina have arrested a man accused of attempting to lure a child into a sexual relationship and expressing an interest in eating a child.

According to the New York Post, 36-year-old Justin Teeter Bensing was one of dozens of suspects caught in a sting operation aimed at thwarting child sex trafficking.

The Myrtle Beach man allegedly sent messages to an undercover police officer posing as an underage girl.

Police say Bensing asked if the individual was prepared to be his “full-time baby maker and sex slave.”

Greenville County Sheriff Will Lewis added to the disturbing accusations by asserting that the suspect expressed a desire to “physically cannibalize” a child and perform sex acts on animals.

“Depravity doesn’t even begin to describe this,” he said.

When reached for comment, Bensing’s father stopped short of defending him on all but one counts.

“The only thing I have to say on Justin’s behalf is that any charges of cannibalism are not correct,” said Donald Bensing.

The father said Tuesday that his son was not available for comment.

In total more than 40 suspects were arrested as part of the investigation.

Bensing is expected to face a charge of criminal solicitation of a minor.

Police arrested him about a month ago in Greenville County. He has since been released from jail after posting $20,000 bond.

It is unclear from available reports whether he has an attorney. He was not scheduled for a subsequent court appearance as of the latest updates available.

Justin Teeter Bensing/Greenville County Sheriff’s Office