Oxnard Man Charged with Sex Crimes Involving Carpinteria Juvenile

Santa Barbara Sheriff's detectives warn parents about social media risks.

Feb. 27, 2026 at 1:06am

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A 23-year-old Oxnard man was arrested on multiple felony charges related to alleged sex crimes involving a juvenile in Carpinteria. The investigation began in November 2025 when patrol deputies followed up on a report of a missing juvenile who had returned home. Detectives determined the suspect, Ramiro Hernandez, had been communicating with the minor through Snapchat and Instagram and was aware of her age.

Why it matters

This case highlights the dangers of online predators using social media to exploit minors. It underscores the importance of parents closely monitoring their children's online activity and having open conversations about internet safety.

The details

According to the Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Office, Hernandez allegedly used social media accounts under names that were not his legal identity. Detectives obtained multiple search warrants to confirm the suspect's identity. On February 26, detectives arrested Hernandez at his home in Oxnard. He was booked into the Santa Barbara County Main Jail on felony charges including assault with intent to commit a sex crime, traveling to meet a minor for lewd and lascivious acts, sexual battery, and furnishing alcohol and marijuana to a minor. Bail was set at $100,000.

  • The investigation began in November 2025 when patrol deputies were following up on a report of a missing juvenile who had returned home.
  • On February 26, detectives arrested Hernandez at his home in Oxnard.

The players

Ramiro Hernandez

A 23-year-old Oxnard man who was arrested on multiple felony charges related to alleged sex crimes involving a juvenile in Carpinteria.

Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency that conducted the investigation and made the arrest.

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What they’re saying

“It is critical that both parents and children understand that individuals online are not always who they claim to be. Child predators often use false identities, fake profiles, and manipulation tactics to gain trust and exploit young people.”

— Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Office

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Ramiro Hernandez out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the urgent need for parents to closely monitor their children's online activity and have open conversations about internet safety, as predators increasingly use social media platforms to exploit minors.