On February 13, 2025, a federal grand jury indicted Ricardo Gutierrez, 27, from Red Bluff, on charges of sexual exploitation of a child and distribution of visual depictions involving minors in sexually explicit conduct. The announcement was made by Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith following the unsealing of the indictment after Gutierrez's arrest.
Court documents reveal that in April 2024, Gutierrez allegedly used four children to produce at least two videos depicting sexually explicit conduct. Between November 2023 and July 2024, he is accused of distributing several videos and images involving prepubescent children, including infants.
The investigation was conducted by Homeland Security Investigations, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Whitnee Goins prosecuting the case.
If convicted on charges of sexual exploitation of a child, Gutierrez could face a minimum sentence of 15 years and up to 30 years in prison, along with lifetime supervised release, restitution, and a $250,000 fine. For distribution charges, the potential penalty includes a minimum sentence of five years and up to 20 years in prison. Sentencing will be determined by the court based on statutory factors and Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
The allegations against Gutierrez remain accusations until proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case falls under Project Safe Childhood, an initiative launched by the Department of Justice in May 2006 aimed at addressing child sexual exploitation and abuse. The program coordinates resources at federal, state, and local levels to prosecute offenders and rescue victims. More information can be found on the Department of Justice website under the “resources” tab for internet-safety education.