Child Sex Sting Catches Santa Ana Detective
A Santa Ana detective has been caught by a child sex sting sending explicit text messages and images to a child, according to news reports.
The detective, 43, was arrested and placed on administrative leave after investigators received a report of an inappropriate relationship between him and a juvenile. The texts and explicit images he sent to a child between December 2021 and January 2022 prompted the investigators to take immediate action.
The accused’s name is Gregory Daniel Beaumarchais. Beaumarchais, now caught by a child sex sting has served in the Santa Ana Police Department since 2011 and was named “Detective of the Year” in 2019.
A Little Background Into How Beaumarchais Was Caught by Child Sex Sting
Police regularly set up operations to catch sex offenders, and surprisingly, they caught one of their own. An officer (not Beaumarchais) set up a fake online profile and posed as a 14-year-old girl. Unbeknownst to Beaumarchais, he added the “young child” and their conversations soon spiraled into explicit ones.
It was quite clear that Beaumarchais understood he was having a conversation with a minor, but for some reason, even as a sworn officer at the time, he didn’t mind.
Beaumarchais’s account was subsequently blocked by the social media platform, but he created a new one, using the same details. He also went back to befriend the “young child” and continued to send explicit texts and images.
While this is not the first time this police department has been embroiled in controversy, this one is particularly grave.
The detective has been charged with one misdemeanor charge of irritating or molesting a person believed to be a kid. If convicted, he faces up to a year in jail and sex offender registration.
The Authorities’ Recommendations to the Public
Authorities warn that anyone using online services such as Facebook, Kik, etc., should be cautious about who they’re talking to online. Anyone who suspects their child is being exploited or abused can contact Child Protective Services or the police.
It may also be beneficial to speak to a legal professional. In California, the Sonoma County child sex abuse attorney at Beck Law P.C. can help.
What You Can Do if You Fear a Kid Is Being Sexually Harassed Online
First, try to reach out to the child yourself. Talk to them about what is happening and why they must speak up. Let them know that you are there for them, no matter what. This can help the child understand that even if they are feeling scared or upset, you are there to reassure them that they are not alone.
Second, report the incident to authorities. This will let them know of your concerns and allow them to investigate the situation further. If there is evidence of criminal activity, authorities may be able to take action against the perpetrator.
If you believe that a child is being sexually harassed online, the best course of action is to contact the police. They will be able to take appropriate steps to protect the child and prosecute the offender.
Furthermore, share this information with your friends and family members. If everyone knows about the situation and takes precautions, we can help protect our children from harm.
Finally, contact a California child sex abuse attorney at Beck Law P.C. We can help you pursue legal action and ensure that justice is served.
