BAKERSFIELD, Calif.(KBAK/KBFX) — Jaylen Cates, a 31-year-old man, has been sentenced to one year in jail for attempting to molest an 11-year-old girl last November. The incident happened when Cates was seen inappropriately hugging the child, making her noticeably uncomfortable.
On November 6, 2024, the young girl reported to Bakersfield police officers that Cates attempted to hug her, saying, “You must be cold because you’re showing skin.” He then approached her and added, “Come here and give me a hug so I can keep you warm.”
A nearby adult witnessed the interaction and noticed the girl’s discomfort. The adult asked the girl to stand with her while she called the police. Cates fled the scene but was found nearby. Both the victim and the witness identified Cates as the suspect…