A registered sex offender was apprehended nearly 15 years after his initial sentence for sexual exploitation of a youngster. The sergeant overseeing the present investigation is the same investigator who apprehended the suspect in 2011.
According to investigators, Cash App detected strange payments from a 34-year-old Arizona male to a juvenile girl in Indiana, resulting in the discovery of an alleged interstate child exploitation case involving a 14-year-old girl. The amount was $51, but detectives say it led to allegations of grooming, obscene photographs, and cross-state trips.
“Parents need to know who they’re communicating with over the internet because it is ripe with sexual predators on the internet,” Sheriff Jerry Sheridan said.
Investigators in Maricopa County allege 34-year-old Stefon Santos used Snapchat and the Cash App to contact with a 14-year-old girl in Indiana. According to detectives, the girl emailed him sexual photographs, after which Santos drove to Indiana to meet her.
“So this tip was just generated by Cash App, seeing that suspicious activity and reporting it to the center,” said Sgt. Dennis Ogerchuck.
According to Ogerchuck, Santos sent approximately 22 cash transactions totaling $51. According to him, predators frequently create confidence through tiny payments.
“We also learned that he had been arrested by the MCSO Cyber Crimes Unit back in 2011,” Ogerchuck replied.
Ogerchuck, the detective who now oversees the Cyber Crimes Unit, claims he was the case agent who arrested Santos 15 years ago in a child sexual abuse material investigation.
“During this current inquiry, MCSO investigators were aware of Stefan’s confessions from my previous conversation with him that he was sexually attracted to minor ladies ages 10 to 15 years old. Stefan made those remarks in 2011, stating that he had a problem, was sick, and required assistance,” Ogerchuck added.
Court records show Santos served about six years in prison, is a registered sex offender and was put on probation.
“We feel pretty likely there’s going to be other victims, possibly here in Maricopa County,” Ogerchuck said.
Several phones were seized, and detectives are currently reviewing chats, images, and apps such as Snapchat, Roblox, Telegram, and WhatsApp.
“It’s so critical for the parents out there to monitor every application that your children are using through the Internet,” Ogerchuck stated.
As forensic examinations continue, investigators believe further charges may be filed in both Arizona and Indiana. They are requesting anyone with information about Santos to contact the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office.
Leave a Comment