A Berkeley man is facing criminal charges after a 17-year-old told police she was paid for sex, according to authorities. The case, which investigators say is supported by digital evidence recovered from the suspect’s phone, is set for arraignment next week.
How Investigators Say It Unfolded
Prosecutors have charged 59-year-old Frank Manuel Vieira with five counts of unlawful sexual intercourse with a 17-year-old after the teen went to Richmond police, according to The Mercury News. Authorities say the encounters allegedly took place between Jan. 1 and June 1.
Court records show Vieira posted a $125,000 bond and is scheduled to be arraigned on July 7.
What California Law Says
Under California law, sexual intercourse with anyone under 18 is unlawful. Penal Code §261.5 defines unlawful sexual intercourse and allows it to be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the age difference and other circumstances, according to California Legislative Information.
Jury instructions explain that a reasonable, actual belief that a person was 18 can be a narrow defense in limited situations. CALCRIM No. 1071 lays out how that issue is presented to jurors, as detailed by Justia. Convictions can bring jail time, fines and other penalties, depending on which subdivision is charged and what facts the prosecutor proves.
Evidence Police Say They Found
Investigators say Vieira’s cellphone held screenshots of sex-work ads, text messages and records of money transfers that lined up with the teen’s account. A Berkeley detective wrote in court papers that he believed Vieira knew the teen’s age, according to The Mercury News.
Vieira reportedly told officers he thought the woman was 19 and that she had shown him identification, the outlet reported. Police described him as a mechanic who had been living at a U-Haul lot on 6th Street in Berkeley while doing odd jobs.
What Happens Next
Vieira is expected to appear in Alameda County court for arraignment on July 7, 2026. The case remains under investigation, and prosecutors could change or add charges as they continue reviewing evidence. He is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
Authorities say anyone with information related to the case can contact Richmond police.
