The Madera County Sheriff’s Office has arrested a suspect in connection to Lewd and Lascivious Acts with a Minor. MCSO reports that its Investigations Division was contacted by two victims who reported being molested by Jesus Cortes-Padilla.

MCSO says the investigation led to the identification of additional victims including a juvenile and an adult. They reported sexual harassment, solicitation of sexual favors, and inappropriate conduct by Cortes-Padilla, according to MCSO.

35-year-old Jesus Cortes-Padilla was arrested by MCSO detectives on June 4, 2024. Cortes-Padilla is charged with Attempted Lewd and Lascivious Acts with a Child Under 14, Molestation of a Child Under 18, and Solicitation of Prostitution.

On June 5, detectives obtained a non-release order and bail enhancement motion. MCSO believes the suspect has potentially victimized more individuals in the community. Anyone with information is asked to contact MCSO at 559-675-7770 or Valley Crime Stoppers at 559-498-STOP.