by | Published
HAYS COUNTY, Texas—A Harris County man has been arrested and charged with Trafficking of Persons/Engage in Sexual Conduct after an investigation found he allegedly provided a vape and alcohol to minors in exchange for sexual favors.
On July 14, the Hays County Sheriff’s Office received a report from a resident in Dripping Springs regarding the allegations. Investigators, working with the Austin Police Department, identified the suspect as Patrick Zepeda.
Evidence from the investigation, including digital records, showed that Zepeda communicated with numerous underage girls on Snapchat. Using the display name "Adrian," Zepeda allegedly solicited nude images and videos and requested sexual activity, sometimes offering "discounts" to victims who complied.
On August 28, Hays County Sheriff’s investigators executed a search and arrest warrant at Zepeda's Harris County residence. Zepeda was taken into custody and booked into the Harris County Jail with a bond set at $75,000. He has since been released.
Sheriff Hipolito is encouraging parents to closely monitor their children’s social media activity. He stated that the Hays County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to protecting children and pursuing those who would exploit them.
If you have information regarding this incident, you can contact Detective Scott Zediker at 512-393-7799 or scott.zediker@hayscountytx.gov. You can also submit an anonymous tip to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-324-8477 or online at www.P3tips.com.
