San Diego, California – A University City high school teacher was arrested earlier this week on charges of attempting to engage in sexual activity with a minor. Sean Stevenson, also the school’s cross country coach, made his initial court appearance following his arrest.
In a significant development during the court proceedings, the judge denied bail to Stevenson, citing concerns about flight risk and potential danger to society.
Stevenson’s arrest took place at a bus stop on Tuesday morning, where he had purportedly arranged to meet a 16-year-old girl for sexual purposes. However, unbeknownst to him, he encountered an undercover agent with whom he had been communicating for the past three weeks.
Prosecutors revealed that officers from the San Diego Human Trafficking Task Force stumbled upon Stevenson’s involvement while investigating an unrelated incident involving a prostitute. Text messages on Stevenson’s cell phone reportedly indicated his interest in procuring sexual encounters with teenage girls.
In early October, an undercover agent, using a different phone number, posed as the same prostitute and contacted Stevenson, inquiring if he still harbored intentions to meet an underage girl. This communication led to the arrangement for the Tuesday morning meeting, according to prosecutors.
During the meeting at the bus stop, Stevenson arrived carrying the cell phone used for communication and $140 agreed upon for the transaction, as detailed in the complaint.
Stevenson’s mother attended the court hearing on Thursday, visibly distraught and tearful. She expressed her devastation over the situation and shared that she had not spoken to her son since his arrest but felt compelled to be present at the hearing to support him.
If convicted for sex trafficking in San Diego, Sean Stevenson could face a prison sentence ranging from 10 years to life.
If you or someone you’re aware of has been a victim of sex trafficking in California and needs legal assistance, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the knowledgeable lawyers at Women’s Rights Group. Our experienced attorneys are ready to provide legal support. Reach out to us for a confidential and free consultation today.
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