Ventura County Sheriff's Department

On 10-11-12, during the afternoon hours, Moorpark patrol deputies received a call of a suspicious subject in the area of Poindexter Park. Multiple reporting parties stated that Sergio Rivas was attempting to lure children over to his vehicle and talk to them as they were walking home from school. One of the parties stated they saw children talking to him and then running quickly away from his car.

An investigation ensued in which additional information developed indicating that Rivas initially attempted to lure adult females into taking rides in his car after he made sexually suggestive remarks to at least one of them. This occurred with two separate women at different locations. Rivas then appeared to engage in similar activity with children who were walking by his vehicle.

A search of Rivas’ vehicle resulted in the seizure of a red police type light and ammunition.

Rivas was arrested for child annoying and booked into custody at the Ventura County Jail in lieu of $10,000 bail.

Nature of Incident: Child Annoying
Report Number: 12-22890
Location: Poindexter Park, Moorpark
Date & Time: October 11, 2012 – Afternoon hours
Unit Responsible: Moorpark Patrol
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (D)ecedent City of Residence Age
Sergio Rivas San Diego 49
Deputy Preparing Media Release: Sergeant Victor Fazio
Media Release Date: 10-11-12
Follow-Up Contact: Detective Darin Yanover (805) 532 2700
Approved by: Captain Ron Nelson

Ventura County Crime Stoppers will pay up to $1,000 reward for information, which leads to the arrest and criminal complaint against the person(s) responsible for this crime. The caller may remain anonymous. The call is not recorded. Call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477).