Adelanto Man Arrested After he Arranged to Meet a Minor in a Park but was Met by Deputies Instead
DATE/TIME: July 17, 2022, at 1:17am
INCIDENT: PC 647.6(A)(2): ANNOYING OR MOLESTING A MINOR
LOCATION: John Mgrdichian Park, 11251 Seneca Road in Adelanto
SUSPECT: Matthew Runnels, 46-years-old, resident of Adelanto
SUMMARY:
On July 17, 2022, at 1:17am, deputies arrested Matthew Runnels for annoying or molesting a minor.
Runnels met who he believed to be a 14-year-old girl on a social media site. Runnels arranged to meet the minor at John Mgrdichian Park in Adelanto. Runnels arrived at the location as planned but was met by deputies who took him into custody without incident.
Through the investigation, deputies obtained evidence showing Runnels was aware of the victim’s age. Runnels is a documented gang member and deputies believe there may be more victims who have not come forward, possibly out of fear of retaliation.
Matthew Runnels was booked at High Desert Detention Center. He is currently out of custody and is due to appear in court on August 31, 2022, at 8:00am.
The investigation is ongoing. If you, or anyone you know, has been contacted by Runnels or if you have information on this case, please contact Deputy J. Mora at Victor Valley Sheriff’s Station at 760-552-6800. Callers can remain anonymous and contact We-Tip at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or www.wetip.com.
Refer: Staci Parks
Station: Victor Valley
Phone No. (760) 552-6845
Case No. 242201659
SHANNON D. DICUS, Sheriff-Coroner
San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department
Address/Location
SBSD - Victor Valley Sheriff's Department
11613 Bartlett Ave
Adelanto, CA 92301
Contact
Emergency: 9-1-1