The SAPD is trying to identify a man who harassed a female teenager at the train station

Detectives are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying a suspect involved in a reported child m*lestation incident, according to the SAPD.

On June 3, 2025, at approximately 3:25 p.m., a 16-year-old female was waiting for her train at the Santa Ana Train Station (1000 E. Santa Ana Blvd.) when a male subject approached her, asked her age, and posed an inappropriate question. When the victim told him she had to leave, the subject shook her hand and hugged her. The victim reported feeling uncomfortable during the encounter.

Suspect Description: Male, Hispanic or Middle Eastern, in his mid to late 30’s, approximately 5’10” tall, with a medium build, peppered hair, a beard with a soul patch. The subject was last seen wearing a white baseball hat, black sunglasses, gray sweater, dark colored shorts, and black sandals.

Anyone with information about the identity or whereabouts of this male is urged to contact Detective Tapia at (714) 245-8379 or MTapia@santa-ana.org.

here are the potential legal consequences the suspect could face:

Relevant Penal Codes and Penalties

1. Penal Code 647.6 – Annoying or Molesting a Minor Under 18
   • This law applies when someone engages in behavior motivated by sexual interest that is likely to disturb or irritate a minor.
   • Penalties:
     • Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in county jail.
     • Felony (if aggravating factors exist, such as prior convictions): Possible prison time and mandatory s*x offender registration.
2. Penal Code 288 – Lewd or Lascivious Acts
   • If the suspect’s actions are deemed lewd or lascivious (e.g., inappropriate touching with sexual intent), and the victim is under 16, this could be charged under PC 288.
   • Penalties:
     • PC 288(b)(2): For acts involving minors aged 14–15 when the suspect is at least 10 years older — 1, 2, or 3 years in prison.
     • PC 288(a): For minors under 14 — 3, 6, or 8 years in prison.
     • Mandatory lifetime s*x offender registration under Penal Code 290.
3. Other Related Offenses
   • PC 288.4: Arranging a meeting with a minor for lewd purposes — typically a misdemeanor, but can require s*x offender registration.
   • PC 288.3: Contacting a minor with intent to commit a felony — penalties match the intended felony.

Aggravating Factors That Can Increase Penalties

• Prior s*x offense convictions.
• Use of force, fear, or duress.
• Position of trust (e.g., teacher, coach).
• Multiple victims.

Additional Consequences

• Fines up to $10,000.
• Restitution for victim counseling.
• Loss of professional licenses.
• Deportation for non-citizens.
• Restrictions on residence, employment, and travel due to sex offender status.