In a significant development for the protection of children in Riverside County, a joint investigation by local and federal agencies resulted in the arrest of a 20-year-old man on charges related to child sexual exploitation. The Riverside County Child Exploitation Team (RCCET) collaborated closely with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) after receiving an international tip-off.
On September 5th, John Edward Lario of Banning, California, made his court debut following his arrest on allegations connected to the sexual abuse of an 8-year-old boy. Lario is set to be formally arraigned today, September 19, at the Banning Justice Center. A referral from New Zealand's Digital Child Exploitation Team initially triggered the investigation, leading HSI to swiftly move to engage RCCET, showing the ability to efficiently coordinate with international partners on such critical issues.
HSI's Assistant Special Agent in Charge, Christopher Bracken, praised the operation's success, affirming the commitment to child welfare. "This investigation is a perfect example to highlight HSI Riverside’s dedication and commitment to ensuring the well-being of children," Bracken said. The arrest underscores their efficiency in bringing offenders to justice, as noted in a statement.
Lario faces serious charges including oral copulation and sexual penetration of a child under 10, and lewd and lascivious acts with a child under 14. If convicted as charged, he could potentially receive a life sentence. Barrett Von Esch of the DA’s Sexual Assault Child Abuse Unit is to prosecute the case. RCCET forms part of the broader San Diego Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) task force and works in partnership with multiple law enforcement agencies to combat crimes of this nature.
The case number BAF2400960 is being closely followed as it progresses through the legal system. RCCET's integrated approach, combining resources from various departments, including the Riverside County Sheriff's Office, local police departments, the FBI, and federal agencies, highlights the collective dedication to protecting the most vulnerable from exploitation and holding offenders accountable.
