A 31-year-old man from Bakersfield, Mike Hernandez Jr., was arrested for attempting to meet someone he believed was 15 years old for a sex act. He is facing three counts related to contacting a minor for a sex act and is currently free on $10,000 bail. A competency hearing has been set for next month in Superior Court records.
Hernandez contacted a decoy account used by undercover detectives on a social media application. Despite acknowledging he was communicating with a 15-year-old, he arranged a meeting to engage in a sex act. Detectives then arrested him on March 5 in northwest Bakersfield, with charges being filed two days later in connection to the incident.
The competency hearing for Hernandez is set for next month, as he faces three counts related to contacting a minor for a sex act. Despite being free on bail, he is still awaiting his next court appearance. The court filing provides details about how Hernandez communicated with a decoy account used by undercover detectives and arranged to meet someone he believed was a minor for a sex act.
This case highlights the dangers of online predators and the importance of law enforcement efforts to protect minors from potential harm. It serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance in monitoring online interactions and the role of authorities in apprehending individuals seeking to engage in illegal activities involving minors.
Overall, the arrest of Mike Hernandez Jr. sheds light on the issue of online solicitation of minors and the legal consequences that can follow such actions. It underscores the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat these crimes and protect vulnerable individuals in the community.
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27 Comments
I think we should focus on rehabilitating offenders instead of just punishing them.
Rehabilitation is a noble idea, but some offenders dont deserve second chances. Punishment is necessary to protect society and deter crime. Lets prioritize justice for victims over coddling criminals.
I think age shouldnt matter if they are involved in such crimes.
Is it fair to target only men in these stings? What about women predators?
Men make up the majority of sexual predators, hence the focus on them in stings. Its not about fairness, its about statistics. If women predators were as prevalent, theyd be targeted too. Lets address the real issue here instead of playing the gender card.
Is it fair to arrest someone for their thoughts and not actions?
Thoughts can lead to actions. If someone is actively planning harm or promoting violence, arresting them could prevent a tragedy. Freedom of thought doesnt give a free pass to dangerous ideologies. Safety must come first.
I think we should focus on rehabilitating offenders rather than just punishing them.
Rehabilitation is important, but it shouldnt overshadow the need for accountability and justice for victims. Offenders must face consequences for their actions to deter future crimes and uphold the rule of law. Balancing rehabilitation and punishment is key for a fair and effective criminal justice system.
I think there should be harsher penalties for online predators targeting children.
Absolutely! Online predators targeting children are despicable and dangerous. Harsher penalties are necessary to protect our most vulnerable. Anyone preying on innocent kids deserves the harshest punishment possible. Lets prioritize the safety and well-being of our children above all else.
I think the age of consent should be lowered to 16. Its just a number.
Age of consent laws exist to protect minors from exploitation. Lowering it to 16 could expose vulnerable individuals to harm and manipulation. Age is not just a number when it comes to maturity and understanding of complex relationships. Prioritize the well-being and safety of young individuals.
I think the age of consent should be lowered to 16.
I think sting operations are a waste of resources and entrapment.
Should we be more concerned about entrapment tactics used in these sting operations?
No, criminals deserve whatever tactics are used to catch them. If youre not breaking the law, you have nothing to worry about. Its about keeping our communities safe, not coddling criminals.
Why do predators target children online? Disturbing and needs more awareness.
Can we trust online platforms to keep our children safe? Lets discuss.
This is disturbing. Why do people do such horrible things online?
Because some people lack empathy and respect for others. Its a sad reality of human behavior. Instead of asking why, we should focus on promoting kindness and accountability online. Lets not tolerate such behavior and strive for a better online community.
Shouldnt authorities focus on prevention rather than just arrests?
Shouldnt we focus on prevention rather than just catching offenders after the fact?
Prevention is key, but catching offenders holds them accountable and protects society. We need both to address the issue effectively. Lets not overlook the importance of holding wrongdoers responsible for their actions.
Doesnt this just make you question everything about people you meet online?
Why are predators still able to target children online? Something needs to change.
Unfortunately, predators will always find ways to target children online. Its up to parents and guardians to educate and monitor their kids online activities. Blaming the system wont solve the issue. It starts at home.