In a case that has gripped the Salinas community, Edy Antonio, Jr., a 30-year-old respiratory therapist, faces charges of attempted enticement of minors to engage in criminal sexual conduct. On Thursday, a federal grand jury handed down the indictment, following his initial charge on May 13. The U.S. Attorney's Office alleges that Antonio used his cell phone to try to persuade two minors, believed to be aged 12 and 14, into sexual acts.
According to the indictment, Antonio engaged with an online advertisement promoting commercial sex services on April 21, leading to a text message agreement to pay $500 for sexual conduct with the minors. However, upon his arrival at a Salinas hotel for the rendezvous with what he thought were the young girls, Antonio was apprehended by local law enforcement. Notably, Antonio served as a respiratory therapist at two regional hospitals, a detail that adds a layer to the community's concern.
The joint announcement made on Wednesday by U.S. Attorney Craig H. Missakian and Special Agent in Charge Tatum King of Homeland Security Investigations reveals the investigative efforts leading up to the indictment. Following his arrest on May 20 and subsequent court appearance, Antonio was released on bond and is expected back in court on June 10 before U.S. Magistrate Judge Susan van Keulen.
If convicted of the federal charge, Antonio could face life in prison and a $250,000 fine. However, as the U.S. Attorney's Office emphasized, "An indictment merely alleges that crimes have been committed, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt." With help from Natachiana Burney and Susan Kreider, Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Chang is prosecuting this sensitive case, which stems from a collaborative investigation between HSI and the Salinas Police Department.
