San Benito County ICAC Team Commended for Swift Action in Child Exploitation Case
SAN BENITO COUNTY, CA — On May 15, 2025, the San Benito County Sheriff’s Office received a Priority 1 CyberTip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) regarding a suspected case of child exploitation involving a mother and her young daughter. In response, members of the San Benito County Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force initiated a rapid investigation.
Detective Eric Martinez of the San Benito County Sheriff’s Office led the investigative team, which included Detective Kaleb Simpson, District Attorney Investigator Brandon Mingus, and Probation Officer Marilyn Lopez. Within hours of receiving the tip, the team identified and located the suspect, obtained a search warrant, and executed the warrant at the suspect’s residence.
During the investigation, the suspect was taken into custody and provided a full confession during an interview. In addition, several children were found at the location. Authorities ensured their immediate safety through on-scene coordination.
The safe and efficient execution of the search warrant was supported by patrol personnel, including Corporal Tyler Buscher, Deputies Dom Zanella, Isaac Godinez, Craig Slibsager, and Grant Macierz. Their role in securing the area and supporting the investigative team was noted as vital to the operation’s success.
Natalie Dill of the Monterey County District Attorney’s Office provided forensic support during the case, contributing to the overall investigation. Her involvement demonstrated the significance of inter-agency collaboration within the ICAC framework.
According to the Silicon Valley ICAC Task Force Commander, Sgt. Michael O’Grady, the individuals involved in the investigation exemplified the core values of the ICAC Task Force. Their coordinated efforts, professional conduct, and prompt action contributed to the protection of vulnerable children and the resolution of the case.
The commendation letter issued by Sgt. O’Grady will be placed in the personnel files of those involved as a formal recognition of their contributions to this case. The San Jose Police Department and the National ICAC Task Force Program acknowledged the efforts as consistent with the broader mission of preventing the exploitation and abuse of children.
