TURLOCK, CA – An alleged predator is in custody following accusations that he posed as a young adult on social media to exploit a teenage girl in California, authorities revealed.

Edgar Perez Medina, 35, faces multiple charges, including kidnapping with the intent to commit rape, communicating with a minor with the intent of committing sex acts, and possession of child pornography, according to the Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Office.

The investigation began when a 16-year-old victim reported meeting Medina online. Officials say the two began communicating on November 9 after Medina allegedly used a deceptive social media account to portray himself as an 18-year-old.

Their interactions escalated to plans for an in-person meeting near the girl’s residence in south Stanislaus County, close to the Bay Area. Upon arrival, Medina reportedly coerced the teenager into his vehicle, authorities stated.

“He then drove to a secluded orchard, where he violently sexually assaulted her,” the Sheriff’s Office reported.

Subsequent to the assault, Medina transported the girl to Turlock city limits and left her there. The teenager promptly reported the incident to police, leading investigators to swiftly identify Medina as a suspect.

Police investigations uncovered that Medina is a registered sex offender, previously convicted in 2017 for a similar crime in Merced County. The prior conviction involved attempting to meet a minor for sexual engagement, which resulted in his lifelong registration on California’s sexual offender list.

In response to the latest allegations, detectives executed a search warrant at Medina’s residence, where they discovered child sexual abuse materials. His vehicle was also seized as part of the investigation.

Currently, Medina is being held at the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center, secured under a $4.8 million bail, officials confirmed.

Authorities are urging community members to remain vigilant online and report any suspicious activity to ensure the safety of minors from predators like Medina.