Suspect accused of assaulting women on Carlsbad trail pleads not guilty

Authorities say 22-year-old Felix Blanco grabbed women from behind as he rode past them on an e-bike.

Feb. 4, 2026 at 6:47pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A man accused of sexually assaulting several women on a popular Carlsbad hiking trail pleaded not guilty in court. Prosecutors say 22-year-old Felix Blanco grabbed women from behind as he rode past them on an e-bike and is charged with seven counts of sexual battery. Blanco was previously arrested and charged with a similar crime in December.

Why it matters

The alleged attacks at the Calavera Preserve hiking area have raised concerns about public safety and the vulnerability of women on outdoor trails. The arrest brings some relief, but hikers say the fear remains, highlighting the need for increased security measures and community awareness.

The details

Authorities say Blanco is responsible for several assaults targeting women hiking at the Calavera Preserve. Investigators allege he approached women from behind on his e-bike and slapped them on the bottom. Blanco was arrested Friday at the hiking trails after police responded to a report from a victim.

  • Blanco was previously arrested and charged with a similar crime in December.
  • Blanco pleaded not guilty in court on Monday, February 4, 2026.

The players

Felix Blanco

A 22-year-old man accused of sexually assaulting several women on a popular Carlsbad hiking trail.

Judge Adelaida Lopez

The judge who ordered Blanco to stay 100 yards away from the alleged victims, their homes, jobs, vehicles, and schools.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“You understand that you must stay 100 yards away from these individuals, their home, their job, their vehicle, their school. You understand? Yes?”

— Judge Adelaida Lopez (nbcsandiego.com)

“It's good, you know, to know that this person was arrested but I mean I think as a female, right, we always think about these things. But knowing that somebody is targeting women in that way, that's always like a really scary and unfortunate thing.”

— Unnamed hiker (nbcsandiego.com)

What’s next

The judge denied a request for GPS monitoring and set Blanco's bail at $250,000. The case will continue to be monitored as it progresses through the legal system.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing concerns about public safety and the vulnerability of women on outdoor trails, underscoring the need for increased security measures, community awareness, and a justice system that prioritizes the protection of victims.