San Bruno, California — A San Bruno man faces charges after prosecutors allege he contacted a 12-year-old girl online before arranging an in-person meeting. The sexual assault case highlights concerns among California families about online contact involving minors and the legal options that may be available when a child is harmed.
San Bruno Man Arrested After Alleged Meeting With Minor
According to the San Mateo County District Attorney’s Office, 21-year-old Gael Barajas Hernández allegedly began communicating with the girl on Instagram in May. Prosecutors said he asked for her age and continued communicating after she told him she was 13, including text messages with sexually explicit content.
Authorities allege Barajas Hernández persuaded the girl to leave home and meet him at her middle school and instructed her to disable her phone’s location settings. Prosecutors further allege that he took explicit photographs and sexually assaulted her.
The girl’s aunt later discovered the communications, according to prosecutors. Authorities arrested Barajashernandez on May 27 after another meeting was arranged. He remains in custody with bail set at $200,000 and is awaiting a preliminary hearing.
California Civil Law May Provide Options for Childhood Sexual Assault Survivors
Separate from criminal proceedings, California law may allow survivors and their families to pursue civil remedies for harm caused by childhood sexual assault. For qualifying assaults occurring on or after January 1, 2024, California Code of Civil Procedure § 340.1 provides that certain civil actions involving childhood sexual assault are not subject to a time limit.
Depending on the circumstances, a civil case may seek compensation for:
- Emotional distress and psychological harm
- Costs associated with treatment or counseling
- Other financial losses resulting from the abuse
- Harm caused by a person who committed the assault
- Liability of another person or entity whose wrongful or negligent conduct legally contributed to the assault
Each case depends on its specific facts, available evidence, and applicable California law.
Learn About Your Family’s Legal Options
Sexual assault can leave survivors and families facing difficult legal and emotional challenges. Women’s Rights Group can connect you with a sexual assault lawyer who can review your case, explain possible civil claims, and help identify key evidence.
Contact us for a free, confidential consultation to discuss your legal options.
