Press Release

Thursday, September 5, 2024

NEWS RELEASE: Turlock Man Arrested for Contacting a 13-Year-Old for Sex; Seeking Additional Victims

Turlock, CA – On September 5, 2024, Turlock Police Department Detectives arrested Santiago Cornejo, a 21-year-old Turlock resident, after it was reported he was contacting and meeting a 13-year-old for sexual activity.

On August 31, 2024, the Turlock Police Department learned of inappropriate interactions with Cornejo and an underage female for the past two weeks. The police learned Cornejo met the minor at a gas station in Denair and maintained contact through Snapchat, including occasional in-person meetings. The responding officer acted swiftly, gathering crucial witness statements and evidence, which suggest there may be additional underage victims.

Detectives took over the case and contacted Cornejo on September 5, 2024, at his residence. Cornejo was transported to the Turlock Police Department where he was arrested for three counts of lewd or lascivious acts with a child under 14 and three counts of arranging a meeting with a minor under the age of 18 with intent to engage in sexual conduct.

With the possibility of more underage victims, Detectives are calling on anyone with information to come forward and report these serious matters.

Detective Giovacchini stated, “The Turlock Police Department remains steadfast in our fight against child exploitation and is dedicated to protecting the safety and wellbeing of children in Turlock and the surrounding communities. Ensuring the safety of our youth from predators is our top priority.”

The Turlock Police Department asks anyone with information to call Detective Giovacchini at (209) 668-6539. You can also contact the Turlock Police Department’s Tip Line at (209) 668-5550 extension 6780 or email at tpdtipline@turlock.ca.us.

The Turlock Police Department is an active participant in the Crime Stoppers Program. Callers can leave an anonymous tip by calling Crime Stoppers at (209) 521-4636 or (866) 602-7463 and you may be eligible for a cash reward. You can also leave an anonymous tip online at www.stancrimetips.org or by texting “StanCS” to 738447. The P3 app is also available for download for Apple and Android devices.

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