Man arrested for arranging to meet with minor with the intent to engage in sexual acts 
Case# SMPD23-0003547
On Tuesday, April 4, 2023, SMPD Detectives conducted an investigation that led them to believe an adult male suspect was arranging to meet with what he believed was a 14-year-old boy. The investigation revealed that 58-year-old Nipomo resident, Richard Cavazos, was arranging to meet via social media with the minor with the intent to engage in sexual acts.
On April 4, 2023, at about 7:50 PM, Detectives arrested Cavazos in a parking lot after he attempted to meet with what he believed was a 14-year-old minor. Cavazos was booked into the Santa Barbara County Jail on felony charges related to arranging and meeting with a minor with the intent to engage in sexual acts.
Investigators believe there may be other victims connected to Cavazos that have not reported to law enforcement. Anyone with information related to this or other unreported crimes involving Cavazos is encouraged to contact SMPD Detective Silver at (805) 928 – 3781 ext. 1346 or the Communications Center at ext. 2277.
Prepared by:
Daniel Rios, Sergeant II
Detective Bureau Supervisor
Address/Location
Santa Maria Police Department
1111 W Betteravia Rd
Santa Maria, CA 93455
Contact
Emergency: 9-1-1
Non-emergencies: 805-928-3781
