Former Delano Police Chief Mark DeRosia Arrested for Alleged Child Sex Crimes

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Watch the latest episode of Kern County In Depth as 17 News delves into the concerning issue of individuals being arrested for trying to contact young children for sexual purposes. The recent arrest of former Delano police chief Mark DeRosia highlights the severity of the situation. Delano Mayor Joe Alindajao emphasized that DeRosia’s actions do not reflect the department or city employees. Additionally, a disturbing incident involving an 11-year-old girl found in Utah with an adult man she met online sheds light on the dangers children face online. Learn more about this important topic in the episode aired on March 31, 2024.

Former Delano Police Chief Arrested in Bakersfield

Recently, a shocking incident unfolded in north Bakersfield that left the community reeling. Former Delano police chief, Mark DeRosia, was arrested on March 26 on suspicion of contacting a minor with the intent to commit sexual acts and arranging to meet a minor with the same intent. This alarming arrest took place at a motel in north Bakersfield, sending shockwaves through the area.

DeRosia’s Troubled Past

Mark DeRosia was dismissed by the Delano Police Department in 2017 for reasons that remain unknown. Despite attempts to gather more information from the department, no comment was provided. Delano Mayor Joe Alindajao released a statement emphasizing that DeRosia’s conduct as a private citizen should not reflect on the hardworking individuals of the Delano Police Department or any city employees.

Online Predator Takes Local Girl to Utah

In another distressing incident, an 11-year-old girl from Kern County was reported missing and later found in Utah with a man she had met online. The Kern County Sheriff’s Office revealed that the man, identified as 29-year-old Joshua Michael Stehle of Thornton, Colorado, had traveled from Colorado to Bakersfield to pick up the girl. He then began the journey back to Colorado with her, leading to a multi-state ordeal.

Rescue and Arrest

Court documents detailed how Stehle gave the girl a promise ring, claimed they were in a relationship, and inappropriately touched her in his vehicle. Fortunately, Kern deputies were able to alert officers along the route, leading to the man’s apprehension on Interstate 70 in Salina, Utah. The girl was rescued, the man was arrested, and a firearm was seized during the operation. Deputies then flew the girl back to Bakersfield, ensuring her safety and well-being.

Staying Vigilant Against Child Predators

As the community grapples with these disturbing incidents, it is crucial to remain vigilant and informed about the dangers of child predators. Sgt. Eric Celedon from the Bakersfield Police Department and Titania Jordan from Bark Technologies joined Kern County In Depth to discuss proactive measures and strategies to protect children from online predators.

This episode of Kern County In Depth, which aired on March 31, 2024, shed light on these troubling events and emphasized the importance of community cooperation in keeping our children safe. The incidents serve as a stark reminder of the need for ongoing vigilance and awareness in safeguarding our most vulnerable members.