Sheriff Kevin J. McConville announces the arrest of a suspect in an ongoing criminal investigation that began on March 15th, 2024. The suspect, Francisco Javi Gomez, a 20-year-old male from Norwalk, CT, who was enticing a 13-year-old on social media to engage in sexual activity with him, was apprehended following a collaborative effort involving the Sheriff's Office Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI), Homeland Security agents, and the Rockland County District Attorney's Office investigators.
The investigation into Francisco Javi Gomez's alleged criminal activities culminated in his arrest on April 3rd, 2024. Gomez, upon being confronted by law enforcement officials, attempted to evade capture by ramming his vehicle into undercover and unmarked police cars. After a short pursuit, Investigators were able to deploy a spike strip, which immobilized Gomez's vehicle, and he was safely taken into custody. He was charged with felony Attempted Rape 2nd degree, Attempted Disseminate Indecent Material to a Minor 1st degree, Disseminate Indecent Material to a Minor 1st degree, and a misdemeanor Criminal Mischief 3rd degree.
Following his arrest, Gomez was arraigned in the Town of Southeast Court and was remanded to the Putnam County Correctional Facility with bail set at $100,000 cash or $200,000 bond.
"We commend the dedication and perseverance exhibited by our law enforcement personnel and partners in bringing this individual to justice," stated Sheriff McConville. "The successful outcome of this investigation is a testament to the collaborative efforts of multiple agencies working tirelessly to protect our communities."
"Protecting innocent children from predators using the internet or social media to target them for nefarious reasons is a top priority for my Office. The arrest of the defendant is a stark reminder of the dangers facing minors online. We will continue to work with our partners on the federal and local level to keep our children and community safe," said Rockland County District Attorney Thomas E. Walsh II.
