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Ventura County officials arrested a man accused of grooming and sexual assault after contacting the child via social media.
The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office’s main criminal and sexual assault unit arrested Hector Magana on March 18, following an investigation revealing that he had been communicating online with the 12-year-old victim “in an attempt to commit sexual acts.”
Authorities say Magana used the alias “Damien” while interacting with victims on multiple social media platforms. After gaining the trust of the child, he arranged three separate in-person meetings at Camarillo where he allegedly sexually assaulted the victim.
The Ventura County District Attorney’s Office has formally charged Magana with seven felony counts.
Magana is currently in custody, but the investigation is still underway and detectives believe there may be additional casualties. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office at 805-654-2380.
As social media plays a bigger role in children’s daily lives, authorities encourage parents to educate their children about online safety.
The National Center for Missing Persons and Exploited Children reports that online predators often target children using social media, gaming platforms and chat apps. The five most frequently used apps when reported are:
Snapchat Instagram Facebook Discord Tiktok
According to data, California has the second-largest child cases of missing children in the United States. Additionally, young girls account for 93% of reported victims.
For more information on internet safety and prevention of online exploitation, please visit the official National Missing and Exploited Children website.
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