A man from Fairfield pleaded guilty to child molestation and possession of child pornography Wednesday after using the online game Roblox to contact a 10-year-old girl in Chico.
Alfonso
Butte County District Attorney Mike Ramsey issued a press release Wednesday saying Ethan James Alfonso, 21, of Fairfield directed the girl to “disrobe and touch herself” using an online chat program in 2022. Alfonso also downloaded photos and videos of the incident, leading to the child pornography charge.
“During their conversations, Alfonso was made aware of the girl’s age but nonetheless persuaded the girl to create and send him nude photographs and videos of herself,” Ramsey’s release said. “At one point, Alfonso made threats to the minor that he would release the nude images to the internet if she did not continue to supply him with more. The girl however finally told her mother what was happening and the mother reported it to the Chico police.”
An investigation by the Chico Police Department traced the interactions back to Alfonso who was arrested after a search warrant was served at his home. Ramsey said the case was dragged out by incompetency claims.
“The case was filed by the Butte County District Attorney’s Office in July of 2022 but was prolonged for several years when the defense claimed that Alfonso was mentally incompetent to stand trial,” Ramsey said. “In June of this year, Alfonso was found competent to stand trial on the underlying charges by a jury, whose sole purpose was to determine whether or not Alfonso was competent. Alfonso subsequently pleaded guilty today in court.”
Alfonso has been in the Butte County Jail since July 2022 with bail set at $700,000. He is scheduled for sentencing on Nov. 13, 2024. Ramsey said Alfonso could be looking at eight years and eight months in prison, the maximum term.
“This case highlights a very real danger that lurks for children behind every gaming and chat service where they can interact with strangers,” Ramsey said. “It was clear in his messages to the young girl that Alfonso subtly groomed her for a few weeks before taking advantage of her immaturity and gullibility.”
Heat ahead
The National Weather Service’s Sacramento Office issued a warning of moderate to major heat for next week.
According to the forecast, Monday and Tuesday are expected to have higher heat levels as well as the potential for fire weather.
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Chico and surrounding areas in the north valley could hit the triple digits starting Monday.
People are being asked to stay hydrated, utilize air conditioning and limit outdoor activities. Pets, children and the elderly should be cared for.
The weather service also said to obey burn bans and avoid having vehicles on or near dry grass. Equipment that creates sparks should not be used.
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