Richmond Man Arrested in Porterville Human Trafficking Investigation
PORTERVILLE, CA – The Porterville Police Department has arrested a 20-year-old Richmond resident, Mario Anthony Godinez, following an investigation into allegations of kidnapping and human trafficking. The arrest took place on December 31, 2025, after a multi-agency operation involving the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office, and the Richmond and Benicia Police Departments.
According to department officials, the investigation began on December 29 after a juvenile victim reported being contacted by an adult male through the social media platform Snapchat. Investigators allege that Godinez arranged to meet the victim in Porterville and subsequently transported her to his residence in Richmond. The victim remained at the Richmond location for several days before being returned to Porterville.
During the course of the investigation, detectives determined that Godinez was on court-ordered supervision at the time of the incident, having been previously arrested on multiple charges related to human trafficking. Law enforcement personnel served arrest and search warrants at a residence in the 3400 block of Richmond Way, where Godinez was taken into custody without incident.
Mario Anthony Godinez
Godinez has been booked into the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office South County Detention Facility, where he is currently being held without bail. The charges listed in the investigation include kidnapping, meeting with a minor for the purpose of committing a lewd or sexual act, and committing a felony while released on bail.
The Tulare County District Attorney’s Office is currently reviewing the case. While the investigation remains ongoing, the Porterville Police Department stated that evidence recovered during the search of the Richmond residence suggests there may be additional individuals connected to this case. Authorities are asking anyone with information to contact Detective Madrigal or Sergeant Stark at the Porterville Police Department.
