Fresno Man Accused of Raping 12-Year-Old After Meeting Her Online

Fresno County Sheriff’s sex crimes detectives arrested Carmelo Vasquez, 32, on Monday for allegedly raping a 12-year-old girl he met online.

Detectives booked Vasquez into Fresno County Jail, where his bail was set at $195,000, according to a sheriff’s office news release.

Girl Met Vasquez Online About Two Months Ago

Carmelo Vasquez (Fresno County Sheriff’s Office)

Authorities say that the girl’s parents woke up early Monday morning and found her missing. When the girl returned at about 6 a.m., she said she had left during the night with a man who picked her up in a vehicle and raped her before dropping her off back home.

According to the sheriff’s office, the girl met Vasquez online about two months ago, and they talked via the social media apps Snapchat and Meet Me. Then, about two weeks ago, they met for the first time in person.

The sheriff’s office says that parents can protect their children by monitoring the websites they visit and the apps they use. Through frequent and open conversations, parents also can educate and build trust with their children.

Detectives Seek Additional Information About Vasquez

Detectives say that there’s a possibility Vasquez has done this before. Anyone with information about Vasquez is asked to contact detective Justin Williamson, (559) 600-8216.