Crime & Safety
Bay Area Therapist Nabbed In Child Sex Sting
A 30-year-old therapist was indicted on suspicion of trying to coerce and entice two youths.
SALINAS, CA — A respiratory therapist who allegedly arranged a meeting with two underage girls for sex in Salinas was indicted by a federal grand jury on Thursday, prosecutors said.
Edy Antonio Jr., a 30-year-old Salinas resident, faces one count of attempted coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in criminal sexual conduct, the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of California said in a statement.
On April 21, Antonio allegedly responded to a provocative online ad that he thought offered access to a 12- and 14-year-old girl for $500. According to court documents, he sent text messages arranging the meeting and showed up at a Salinas hotel, where he was arrested by police officers.
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The ad had been part of a sting operation on a website known for promoting commercial sex, according to authorities.
Prosecutors said Antonio was taken into custody on May 20 and was released on bond after a court appearance on the same day.
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At the time of his arrest, he was working as a respiratory therapist at two hospitals in Salinas and Monterey, authorities said.
His next hearing is scheduled for Tuesday. If convicted, Antonio could face up to life in prison and a $250,000 fine, according to prosecutors.
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