Classroom Aide Arrested on Suspicion of Illegal Contact with Underage Student
SAN JOSE, CA — “On May 15, 2026, at approximately 1:30 PM, San José Police Department Patrol Officers responded to a report of an adult male suspect who was sending harmful sexual material to a juvenile female survivor at a high school located in the 1500 block of Branham Lane. The suspect, who was a classroom aide at the time, was sharing inappropriate messaging and conversations with the survivor.
The SJPD Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force began a comprehensive investigation and identified the suspect as Heriberto Plascencia. During the investigation, Detectives also identified a second juvenile survivor who came forward to report that she was also victimized by Suspect Plascencia. Detectives obtained an arrest warrant for the suspect and a search warrant for his associated residence.
On May 21, 2026, with the assistance of the SJPD Human Trafficking Task Force and SJPD Megan’s Law Detail, Detectives located and arrested Suspect Plascencia in the city of San José. The suspect was booked into Santa Clara County Main Jail for sending harmful materials to a minor and for annoying or molesting a minor. Due to Suspect Plascencia’s position of trust, Detectives believe there may be additional victims. Anyone with information about this case or similar cases is asked to contact Detective Widmer #4581 of the San José Police ICAC Task Force via email: 4581@sanjoseca.gov or 408-277-3214.
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