Chico Man During Undercover Operation Aimed at Identify Potential Child Predators
CHICO, CA — June 10th, 2026 — “Last month, Detectives with the Chico Police Department conducted an undercover operation aimed at identifying potential child predators in the Chico community. The goal of this approach was to identify and apprehend adults using the internet and social media to sexually exploit children by soliciting sex and/or sex-related acts.
During this case, Chico Police Detectives documented illicit conversations exchanged between an adult male and a victim he believed to be a 15-year-old female. During the text message exchanges, the suspect, 24-year-old Jonathan Rodriguez, requested photos and made multiple attempts to meet in person with the apparent intent to have a sexual relationship.
Detectives conducted surveillance during the timeframe of one such scheduled meeting and observed Rodriguez attempting to stalk the victim on her reported path of travel to the rendezvous location. On June 9, 2026, Detectives served a search warrant at Rodriguez’s residence and took him into custody without incident.
Jonathan Rodriguez of Chico was booked into the Butte County Jail for charges of:
- 288.3(A) PC: Contact minor with intent for sex (F)
- 311.4(A)(1) PC: Use minor for obscene matter (F)
- 288.4(A)(1) PC: Arrange meeting with a minor (F)
Multiple electronic devices were recovered from the home, and additional charges may be added upon the conclusion of the review of their contents. If you or someone you know may be a victim of Jonathan Rodriguez’s, or if you have information relating to this case, we encourage you to contact the Chico Police Detective Bureau at (530) 897-5820. A current photo is attached for identification purposes. Victims will remain confidential and be connected with resources and support.
This investigation was made possible with the support of the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force. The Chico Police Department is committed to its partnership with the ICAC Task Force and is dedicated to protecting children by holding internet predators accountable. Please visit https://www.icactaskforce.org/internetsafety for information on how to keep you and your family safe online.”
