Castroville Man Arrested on Human Trafficking and Attempted Murder Charges
CASTROVILLE, CA — The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office arrested 31-year-old Eric Adam Melendez of Castroville on April 28, 2026, following an investigation into allegations of human trafficking, attempted murder, and narcotics sales. The case originated on April 23 at approximately 11:45 PM, when witnesses reported seeing a male strangling a female near a shopping center on Merritt Street in Castroville.
Responding deputies located the female victim and a vehicle containing evidentiary items, though the suspect had already fled. The victim informed investigators that Melendez was sexually trafficking her. Detectives from the Violent Crimes Unit subsequently tracked Melendez to Salinas, where he was apprehended during a traffic stop while driving a silver Honda CRV.
At the time of his arrest, Melendez was found in possession of suspected methamphetamine, heroin, fentanyl, scales, and cash. Follow-up search warrants at several locations in Monterey County yielded a firearm, additional narcotics, and items including lingerie and condoms, which investigators believe are associated with human trafficking. Evidence also indicated that Melendez had allegedly threatened the victim’s life with a knife and attempted to prevent her from cooperating with law enforcement.
Melendez was booked into the Monterey County Jail on numerous charges, including human trafficking, attempted murder, pimping, pandering, and being a felon in possession of a firearm. Authorities secured a $1,000,000 bail enhancement and an emergency protective order for the victim. Investigators believe there may be additional victims and are asking anyone with information to contact the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office.
