⏱ 2 min read
A former corrections sergeant at the Central California Women’s Facility in Chowchilla, Ralph Contreras Jr, 40, has been sentenced to 15 years in prison for dealing in child sexual abuse material. Between September 29, 2024, and January 2, 2025, Contreras received and distributed the material through social media apps, specifically targeting content that depicted prepubescent minors. At the time of his arrest, Contreras was working as a corrections sergeant.
Contreras pleaded guilty on April 13, 2026, to the charges. The investigation was conducted by Homeland Security Investigations, the Central California Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and the Madera County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Barton prosecuted the case.
The case was part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative by the DOJ to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse. The project aims to locate, apprehend, and prosecute those who sexually exploit children and to identify and rescue the victims.
Contreras’ sentence reflects the severity of his crimes and the importance of protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation. The DOJ and other law enforcement agencies will continue to work together to bring perpetrators to justice and keep communities safe.
📋 Key Facts
- Crime: Sex Crimes
- Defendant: California
- Location: CA
- Source: DOJ Press Release
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