The California Highway Patrol’s Computer Crimes Investigation Unit (CCIU), in partnership with the Turlock Police Department and the Sacramento Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, has arrested a 44-year-old Antelope man following an undercover investigation targeting online predators.
In March, the suspect began communicating online with someone he believed to be a 13-year-old girl. The individual was actually an undercover CHP investigator. The suspect sent explicit messages and attempted to arrange an in-person meeting. After weeks of investigation and collaboration with the Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office, the suspect was arrested on July 2 and booked on multiple felony charges, including attempted lewd acts with a child under 14 and sending harmful material to a minor.
The CCIU investigates computer-facilitated crimes and supports state agencies and allied law enforcement partners throughout California. In addition to assisting with digital forensic analysis and cyber investigations, the unit actively conducts proactive child sexual abuse material (CSAM) investigations, identifying individuals who distribute or download high volumes of CSAM while attempting to avoid detection…