Two teenage girls were approached, offered drugs, groped, and chased before escaping to a youth shelter where the suspect was later arrested.
Here’s the rundown
Read this especially if you are following community safety concerns, juvenile victim cases, or ongoing law enforcement investigations in Ventura County.
WHAT HAPPENED
Authorities have arrested Sergio Jesse Castro, a 34 year old homeless man known in the Oxnard and Ventura area, after a disturbing encounter involving two teenage girls near the local art museum.
The teens had been exploring the area when Castro allegedly initiated a conversation that quickly escalated into criminal behavior. According to initial reports, he offered both girls cocaine and attempted to force them to inhale it.
During the encounter, he also groped both minors and made additional unwanted physical contact. The teens managed to escape and ran to safety at the Interface Youth Shelter, located near the theater district.
Shelter staff immediately assisted the visibly shaken girls and contacted law enforcement. In a startling turn of events, Castro showed up outside the youth shelter just as the victims' family arrived.
Officers were already on scene taking statements, which allowed them to detain him immediately. One of the teens identified him on the spot.
Castro was arrested and reportedly admitted to the actions during the preliminary investigation.
Charges are expected to include sexual assault of minors, child endangerment, and attempted distribution of a controlled substance to minors.
Detectives are continuing to review all available evidence and are evaluating whether additional charges may apply.
Context and Community Impact
The incident occurred in a popular public area frequented by families, tourists, and teens.
Residents have raised renewed concerns about safety around the museum district and the nearby transit corridor.
The victimization of minors has prompted warnings from both police and local advocacy groups who work with youth and vulnerable populations.
Interface Youth Shelter is being praised for its quick response, reinforcing its role as a critical safe haven for local teens.
Authorities are emphasizing that even seemingly minor red flags should be reported immediately.
Why This Story Matters
This case highlights growing anxiety in the community about predatory behavior in highly visible public spaces. It also underscores the importance of youth shelters, safe spaces and immediate reporting.
The fact that the suspect returned to the scene moments after the victims arrived has raised questions about potential escalation or repeated targeting.
Parents and local leaders are urging increased vigilance while investigators continue gathering evidence that will determine the path of prosecution.