Gonzalo Hernandez, a 37-year-old resident of Oakdale, has been indicted on two counts of sexual exploitation of a minor. Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced the charges following Hernandez’s arrest on June 26, 2025.
Court documents reveal that between August 2, 2021, and November 13, 2023, Hernandez produced images involving a minor in sexually explicit conduct. Additionally, in March 2024, he allegedly persuaded another minor to create similar images.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Oakdale Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Shelley D. Weger.
If found guilty, Hernandez faces a minimum sentence of 15 years and a maximum of 30 years in prison for each count, along with a potential fine of $250,000. Sentencing will be determined by the court after reviewing statutory factors and federal guidelines. It is important to note that these charges are allegations at this stage; Hernandez is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt.
This case falls under Project Safe Childhood, an initiative started in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to address child sexual exploitation and abuse nationwide. The project aims to utilize federal, state, and local resources for prosecuting offenders and rescuing victims. More information can be found at www.usdoj.gov/psc under the “resources” tab for internet safety education.
