Banning Man Arraigned On Child Sex Abuse Charges

BANNING, CA — A Banning man was arraigned Thursday on multiple felony charges after prosecutors allege he sexually abused an 8-year-old boy and distributed videos on the internet.

The district attorney's office has identified the man accused as John Edward Lario, 20, of Banning.

Prosecutors said the investigation began earlier this month when a Digital Child Exploitation Team in New Zealand discovered a link containing videos and images of child sexual abuse that appeared to originate from Riverside County. Authorities in New Zealand notified Homeland Security Investigations, who then contacted Riverside County's Child Exploitation Team.

A joint investigation led detectives to Lario, and prosecutors said a search warrant revealed the identity of an 8-year-old boy who investigators believe was the victim. Lario had an initial court appearance on Sept. 5 and was arraigned on more than a half-dozen felony charges Thursday morning at the Banning Justice Center. He pleaded not guilty.

According to jail records, Lario is being held in lieu of $1 million in bail. If convicted of all charges, the DA's office said he could receive a life sentence.

"This investigation is a perfect example to highlight HSI Riverside's dedication and commitment to ensuring the well-being of children," said Christopher Brakcen, HSI Riverside's Special Agent in Charge. "This arrest highlights HSI's ability to coordinate with its international and state and local partners to swiftly pursue offenders and bring them to justice."

City News Service contributed to this report.