On June 26, 2025, Gonzalo Hernandez, a 37-year-old resident of Oakdale, was indicted on two counts of sexual exploitation of a minor. The indictment was unsealed following his arrest, as announced by Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith.
Court documents reveal that between August 2, 2021, and November 13, 2023, Hernandez produced images depicting a minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Furthermore, in March 2024, he allegedly persuaded another minor to create similar images.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Oakdale Police Department conducted the investigation leading to these charges. Assistant U.S. Attorney Shelley D. Weger is prosecuting the case.
If convicted, Hernandez faces a minimum sentence of 15 years and a maximum of 30 years in prison for each count. He could also be fined up to $250,000. Sentencing would be determined by the court based on statutory factors and Federal Sentencing Guidelines. It is important to note that these charges are allegations; Hernandez is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, an initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse. The program coordinates federal, state, and local resources to prosecute offenders and rescue victims. More information about Project Safe Childhood can be found at www.usdoj.gov/psc under the “resources” tab for internet-safety education.
