LAPD Arrests Internet Predator

Los Angeles:  A man who used Internet chat rooms to lure children for sex was arrested today following a police sting.
Acting on information from a minor and the minor’s parents, detectives from the Los Angeles Police Department’s Sexually Exploited Child Unit (SECU) set a sting for 44-year-old Saul Ulloa Paredes, who thought he was going to meet a minor for sex.  Detectives arrested Paredes on December 1, 2005, at about 10:30 a.m., when he arrived at the pre-arranged location, expecting to meet his victim.  Paredes was booked on a charge of sodomy of a minor, and his bail was set at $50,000.
This investigation began in August 2005, when the minor and his parents contacted LAPD.  The minor described how Paredes had contacted him in an Internet chat room, which resulted in the two meeting, and Paredes molesting the youth.  Officers posed as the minor in the chat room, where Paredes made contact again.  This contact led to the sting and Paredes’ arrest. 
“Cases like this serve as important reminders for parents to monitor their children’s Internet activity and set restrictions on the access,” said LAPD spokesman Lieutenant Paul Vernon.  “Many Internet services provide features to help parents restrict and monitor usage.”
A photograph of Paredes is being made available to the media as detectives believe other victims may have had contact with Paredes.  The photograph is available from LAPD Media Relations Section by calling 213-485-3586.
Anyone having any information regarding Paredes is encouraged to contact the Sexually Exploited Child Unit at 213-485-2883.  On weekends and during off-hours, please call the 24-hour toll free number, at 1-877-LAWFULL (529-3855).