San Jacinto Man Accused of Sexually Assaulting Girls Met Online

Authorities suspect there may be additional victims of the 25-year-old suspect.

Mar. 27, 2026 at 12:42am

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A 25-year-old San Jacinto man named Alex Anthony Gomez has been arrested and booked into jail on suspicion of sexually assaulting two teenage girls he met through social media, where he allegedly identified himself as 'Smiley'. Detectives believe there may be additional victims who were lured into similar scenarios.

Why it matters

This case highlights the dangers of online predators targeting minors through social media platforms, and the importance of educating youth about internet safety and the risks of meeting strangers in person. It also raises concerns about bail reform and whether alleged repeat offenders should be released pending trial.

The details

According to the Riverside County Sheriff's Department, deputies received a report last week of an alleged sexual assault on a teenage girl who had met the suspect through social media. The suspect, identified as Gomez, allegedly forced himself on the victim after they agreed to meet in person. While investigating that initial case, detectives learned of a second alleged sexual assault over the weekend with identical circumstances. The investigation led them to Gomez, and a warrant was obtained to search his residence where he was taken into custody without incident.

  • Last week, deputies received a report of an alleged attack on a girl who had met the assailant via social media.
  • Over the weekend, detectives received word of a second alleged sexual assault with identical circumstances.

The players

Alex Anthony Gomez

A 25-year-old San Jacinto man suspected of sexually assaulting two girls he met through social media, where he allegedly identified himself as 'Smiley'.

Riverside County Sheriff's Department

The law enforcement agency investigating the alleged sexual assaults and arresting the suspect.

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What they’re saying

“Detectives believe there may be additional victims lured into the same scenarios as the other two girls.”

— Sgt. Bryan Jauert, Riverside County Sheriff's Department

What’s next

The judge will decide on Gomez's bail status at a hearing next week.

The takeaway

This case underscores the need for greater online safety education and monitoring for youth, as well as stronger measures to protect minors from sexual predators who exploit social media platforms to target vulnerable victims.