10 Arrested in San Jose Child Sex Sting, Including Middle School Vice Principal

Authorities say the suspects, ranging from 25 to 72 years old, were nabbed in an undercover operation ahead of the Super Bowl.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Police in San Jose, California arrested 10 men, including a 31-year-old middle school vice principal named Ruben Guzman, in a child sex sting operation conducted ahead of the Super Bowl. Guzman allegedly tried to meet up with someone he believed was a 13-year-old boy in order to exchange money for sexual acts, but it turned out to be an undercover sting. The other suspects, ranging in age from 25 to 72, were also arrested and charged with crimes related to child exploitation and attempting to meet minors for sexual purposes.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to crack down on child predators, especially those in positions of authority over children. The involvement of a middle school vice principal raises serious concerns about the safety of students and the need for thorough background checks and monitoring of school personnel.

The details

According to police, Guzman arranged to meet who he thought was a 13-year-old boy in order to exchange money for sexual acts. When Guzman arrived at the location, he was immediately taken into custody by officers from the San Jose Police Department's Covert Response Unit. A search of Guzman and his vehicle uncovered "items consistent with the planned encounter," though police did not provide specifics. Authorities also discovered that Guzman worked as an assistant principal at Sunrise Middle School in San Jose.

  • The sting operation was conducted by San Jose police ahead of the 2026 Super Bowl game.

The players

Ruben Guzman

A 31-year-old middle school vice principal in San Jose who was arrested in the child sex sting operation.

Sunrise Middle School

The school where Ruben Guzman worked as an assistant principal.

San Jose Police Department

The law enforcement agency that conducted the undercover sting operation and made the arrests.

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What’s next

Police have asked the public to come forward with any information about other potential victims, given the suspect's access to children through his job as a school administrator.

The takeaway

This case underscores the critical need for thorough background checks, ongoing monitoring, and strict protocols to protect students from predators, even in positions of authority within the school system. It also highlights the proactive efforts of law enforcement to identify and apprehend those seeking to exploit minors.