Golden State Today

Goleta, Calif. – Sheriff's detectives have re-arrested 54-year-old Steven Schapansky from Goleta on a new charge of child molestation. Deputies began their investigation on Friday, July 12, 2024, when they received a report of secret recording devices found in the suspect’s possessions. As a result of the initial investigation, detectives arrested Schapansky on Saturday, July 13, 2024, for invasion of privacy with a recording device (misdemeanor), and he was subsequently released.

Detectives have since been conducting follow-up on this case and have identified Schapansky as the suspect in a child molestation case. Detectives obtained a warrant for Schapansky’s arrest and tracked him to where he was staying in the Fresno area. With the assistance of the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office, detectives arrested Schapansky on a felony warrant in the city of Fresno on Friday, September 6, 2024, at approximately 10:00 a.m. He was booked at the Northern Branch Jail where he is being held on $100,000 bail. Identifying information about the juvenile survivor is not available for release.

Sheriff’s detectives coordinate closely with the Santa Barbara County District Attorney’s Office Victim-Witness Program to ensure that victims' needs are not overshadowed by the focus on investigating and prosecuting the accused. Advocates are available to ensure that victims are kept informed and supported throughout the criminal justice process. Victims have the option of contacting the Victim-Witness Assistance Program directly at 805-568-2400 or toll-free at 855-840-3232.