Written by: Bonnie Chapman
Turlock, CA – In a significant law enforcement operation, the Turlock Police Department, in collaboration with multiple agencies, arrested 17 individuals in connection with child sex crimes. The operation, meticulously planned over several months, took place on January 5th and 6th and was led by Detective Gina Giovacchini.
Key Figures and Operation Details
Detective Giovacchini, who spearheaded the operation, received commendation for her strategic approach in tackling this sensitive issue. "Our goal is to protect the most vulnerable in our community, and this operation is a testament to our unwavering commitment," she stated in a press release.
The operation was supported by agencies including the Sacramento Valley Internet Crimes Against Children, Stanislaus County District Attorney's Office Special Victim's Unit, State Parole, and Stanislaus County Sheriff's Office Special Victim's Unit.
Defendants and Charges in the Turlock Police Operation
The operation led to the arrest of 17 individuals, each facing charges related to child sex crimes. Below is a list of the defendants and their specific charges:
Devin Greer Dacanay, 22, Turlock: Charged with contacting a minor with the intent of sex and arranging to meet with a minor for sex.
Aaron Doub, 41, Turlock: Charged with contacting a minor with intent of sex, arranging to meet with a minor for sex, and attempting lewd or lascivious acts with a child.
Juan Jr. Viera, 29, Modesto: Charged with contacting a minor with the intent of sex, arranging to meet with a minor for sex, and possessing matter depicting sexual conduct.
Fernando Delacruz Martinez, 36, Elverta: Charged with contacting a minor with the intent of sex and arranging to meet with a minor for sex.
Justin Velez, 37, Modesto: Charged with contacting a minor with the intent of sex, arranging to meet with a minor for sex, and soliciting and/or engaging in prostitution.
Antoni Shahbaz Yangejeh, 35, Turlock: Charged with contacting a minor with the intent for sex and arranging to meet with a minor for sex.
Mario Dejesus, 37, Turlock: Charged with contacting a minor with the intent of sex and possessing matter depicting sexual conduct.
Armando Cardenas, 32, Atwater: Charged with contacting a minor with the intent of sex, arranging to meet with a minor for sex, and possessing metal knuckles.
Leopoldo Garcia Aquino, 25, Livingston: Charged with contacting a minor with the intent of sex and soliciting and/or engaging in prostitution.
Salvador Nunez, 28, Turlock: Charged with contacting a minor with the intent for sex.
Jose Herrera Sanchez, 54, Stevinson: Charged with two counts of contacting a minor with the intent of sex, arranging to meet with a minor for sex, two counts of inducing a minor to use marijuana, and transporting a controlled substance.
Andrew Godinez, 21, Delhi: Charged with contacting a minor with the intent of sex, arranging to meet with a minor for sex, and resisting arrest.
Cesar Jr. Linarez, 25, Modesto: Charged with contacting a minor with the intent of sex and arranging to meet with a minor for sex.
Bryce Wilkinson, 19, Modesto: Charged with contacting a minor with the intent of sex and arranging to meet with a minor for sex.
Jesus Cerna Bernabe, 29, Newman: Charged with arranging to meet with a minor for sex and an existing arrest warrant.
Anthony Morrisette, 41, Oakdale: Charged with contacting a minor with the intent of sex and arranging to meet with a minor for sex.
Gerad Slayton, 42, Modesto: Charged with contacting a minor with the intent of sex and arranging to meet with a minor for sex.
Broader Implications and Community Safety
In light of these arrests, experts are raising awareness about the dangers children face online. They stress the importance of parental supervision and open dialogues about internet safety, especially in online environments where predators may lurk.
The Sacramento Valley Internet Crimes Against Children task force emphasized the ongoing threat posed by online predators. "This operation is a clear message to those who exploit children: we are vigilant, and we will bring you to justice," a spokesperson for the task force said.
While details of the methods used to apprehend the suspects remain confidential, the Turlock Police Department highlights the significance of inter-agency cooperation in such operations.
Next Steps and Legal Proceedings
The individuals arrested are currently awaiting trial, and further details will be released as the legal process unfolds. This operation serves as a stark reminder of the persistent threats online and the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to protect children in our communities.
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