Michele Beckwith Acting U.S. Attorney | U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of California
Gonzalo Hernandez, a 37-year-old resident of Oakdale, has been indicted on charges of attempted sexual exploitation involving two minors. The indictment was made public following his arrest on June 26, 2025. Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith confirmed the charges against Hernandez.
Court documents reveal that between August 2, 2021, and November 13, 2023, Hernandez allegedly produced images depicting a minor in sexually explicit conduct. Furthermore, in March 2024, he is accused of persuading another minor to create similar images.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Oakdale Police Department conducted the investigation leading to these charges. Assistant U.S. Attorney Shelley D. Weger is handling the prosecution.
If found guilty, Hernandez could face a minimum prison sentence of 15 years and up to a maximum of 30 years for each count. He may also be subject to a $250,000 fine. Sentencing will be determined by the court based on statutory factors and Federal Sentencing Guidelines after a conviction is secured. It is important to note that these charges are allegations at this stage; Hernandez remains presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt.
This case falls under Project Safe Childhood, an initiative launched by the Department of Justice in May 2006 aimed at combating child sexual exploitation and abuse nationwide. The project coordinates efforts among federal, state, and local resources to apprehend offenders and rescue victims. More information about Project Safe Childhood can be found at www.usdoj.gov/psc under the "resources" tab for internet safety education.
