DATE/TIME: August 9, 2023 / 10:18 pm
INCIDENT: PC 288.4(a) – Arranging to Meet with a Minor for Lewd Purposes
PC 311.1(a) – Send or Sell Obscene Matter
LOCATION: 15500 block Ute Road, Apple Valley
SUSPECT(S): Faruq Balogun, 19-year-old male resident of Des Plaines, IL
VICTIM(S): Female Juvenile, 17-year-old resident of Apple Valley
SUMMARY:
In November of 2022, the victim met the suspect while playing “Roblox”. Since November, the two have communicated using various apps. During these communications, the suspect coerced the victim into sexting and exploited the victim into sexual acts, committed on an electronic device.
On August 9, 2023, the suspect, Faruq Balogun, flew from Chicago, Illinois to Ontario, California, and went to the victim’s residence in Apple Valley. Deputy Cohlton Hubbard responded to the call for service at the victim’s residence and contacted Balogun.
At the completion of the investigation, Faruq Balogun was arrested for arranging to meet with a minor for lewd purposes and sending or selling obscene matter. Balogun was transported to High Desert Detention Center where he subsequently posted bail.
Apple Valley Police Department reminds parents of the importance in protecting children. It is essential for parents to be vigilant in helping their children learn and use safe technology practices. Parents should monitor activity and conduct regular, unannounced checks of phones and other devices to ensure they are being used properly. These checks will protect children and provide opportunity for early detection of someone exploiting or coercing their child.
Anyone with information about this investigation is asked to contact Deputy Hubbard at Apple Valley Police Department at (760) 240-7400 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 leave information on the We-Tip website at www.wetip.com.
Refer: Pamela Hoffman
Station: Apple Valley Police Department
Phone No. (760) 240-7428
Case No. 182303922
SHANNON DICUS, Sheriff-Coroner
San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department
