Big Bear Lake, CA, September 24, 2014 – An 18-year-old male has been arrested for sending sexually explicit messages to students at Big Bear Middle School and Big Bear High School.
The Big Bear Sheriff’s Station opened an investigation into the case on September 18, after girls reported receiving the messages through texting and social media. Deputies say at least nine female juveniles were targeted by Jaime Lopez, who was taken into custody without incident.
The suspect was booked into Big Bear Jail on felony charges of sending harmful matter with the intent to seduce a minor and contacting a minor with the intent for sexual acts. He remains in custody in lieu of $50,000 bail. Two arraignment hearings were held this week at San Bernardino County Superior Court; no word yet on the outcome.
Distribution of sexually explicit content to minors or depicting minors is a crime. Parents are encouraged to continue to talk with their children about the importance of reporting obscene materials received via social media and/or text messaging.
Bear Valley Unified School District issued a letter Monday assuring parents that the Sheriff’s Station notified school officials immediately of the situation but asked them to withhold details until authorized by law enforcement.
Anyone having additional information on this matter should report it to Detective Jeremy King at (909) 866-0100. or anonymously online at www.wetip.com.
