Full Notification

DATE/TIME: February 28, 2021 / 8:17 a.m.

INCIDENT: Suspect Arrested for Sex Crimes

LOCATION: Hesperia, CA

SUSPECT: Benjamin Clinton, 19-year-old male, resident of Twentynine Palms

VICTIM: Confidential – 15-year-old female

SUMMARY:
On Sunday, February 28, 2021, at approximately 8:17 a.m., deputies responded to a residence located in the 10000 block of Eighth Avenue in reference to a runaway juvenile. The reporting party informed deputies that her 15-year-old granddaughter, the victim, ran away from the residence sometime during the night. Through investigation, deputies discovered the victim and the suspect communicated over a period of time to coordinate and help the victim run away. The victim left her residence without permission to meet with the suspect, Benjamin Clinton, who investigators believe she met online and have been involved in a sexual relationship.

Detectives assigned to the Hesperia Station coordinated with military officials and contacted Clinton at the Twentynine Palms Marine Corp Base where he is stationed. Clinton was later booked at the Morongo Basin Jail for PC261.5(c)- sex with a minor and PC278-concealment of child from legal guardian. Clinton is scheduled to be arraigned on March 2, 2021. The investigation is ongoing.

Anyone with information about this investigation, or any additional victims are asked to contact the Hesperia Police Department at (760) 947-1500 or Sheriff’s Dispatch at (760) 956-5001. Callers wishing to remain anonymous are urged to call the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78CRIME (27463) or you may leave information on the We-Tip website at www.wetip.com.


Refer: Taylor Reynolds, Media Relations

Station: Hesperia Police Department

Case #: 192101305

Phone No. (760) 947-1500

JOHN MCMAHON, Sheriff-Coroner
San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department