East Bay Man Accused Of Trafficking Minor Using Snapchat: Police

RICHMOND, CA — An East Bay man is being accused of trafficking a minor using the social media app Snapchat, according to the Porterville Police Department.

Mario Anthony Godinez, 20, of Richmond, contacted an underage girl on Snapchat and arranged to meet with her in Porterville, according to police.

Godinez then drove the girl back to his home in Richmond, where she stayed for several days before being taken back to Porterville, police said.

When she returned, the girl reported what had happened to the police, who said they immediately launched an investigation into Godinez.

Investigators learned Godinez had previously been arrested in connection with multiple human trafficking-related charges and was on court-ordered supervision when he met up with the minor in Porterville, police said.

Police say they secured a warrant to search Godinez's home in the 3400 block of Richmond Way. When officers searched it on New Year's Eve, they found evidence of human trafficking, police said.

He was taken into custody on suspicion of meeting with a minor for the purpose of committing a lewd or sexual act, kidnapping and committing a felony while released on bail, authorities said.

Police believe there may be additional victims and ask that anyone with further information contact the Porterville Police Department investigators at 559-782-7400.