Staff Report
SAN MARCOS — On July 14, the Hays County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) received a report from a resident in Dripping Springs regarding allegations that an adult male provided a vape and alcohol to a minor in exchange for sexual favors.
During the investigation, Hays County investigators and crime analysts identified a related case being investigated by the Austin Police Department (APD), according to a news release. Investigators reviewed digital evidence and identified the suspect as Patrick Zepeda.
HCSO investigators executed a search and arrest warrant Aug. 28 at Zepeda’s residence in Harris County. Zepeda was taken into custody and booked into the Harris County Jail for trafficking of persons/engage in sexual conduct, a first-degree felony. His bond was set at $75,000 and has since been released.
Evidence shows that Zepeda communicated with numerous underage girls through the social media platform Snapchat. Zepeda used the display name “Adrian,” under username “acru556.” In these communications, Zepeda solicited nude images and videos, requested sexual activity and, in some instances, offered “discounts” to victims who complied with his requests. Several victims also reported purchasing alcohol and vapes from Zepeda without complying with his sexual demands.
HCSO Sheriff Anthony Hipolito strongly encouraged parents to closely monitor their children’s social media activity, as online predators continue to use new and deceptive methods to target minors. This arrest demonstrates that such behavior will not be tolerated, said the release, and HCSO remains committed to protecting children and pursuing those who exploit them.
If community members have information regarding this incident, contact detective Scott Zediker at 512- 393-7799 or [email protected] or contact Crime Stoppers anonymously by calling 1-800-324-8477 from anywhere in the U.S. or submit information online to Tip Line: www.P3tips.com.
