A man was arrested for allegedly kidnapping and molesting a young girl who was searching for her lost dog in San Bernardino County.
The suspect was identified as Guillermo Cascante, 57, of San Bernardino, according to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.
On Aug. 19, the victim, an 11-year-old girl, was looking for her missing dog near San Francisco and 14th streets in Highland.
Cascante was driving a large white van when he spotted her. He pulled over and allegedly offered to help the girl while pretending he worked for Animal Control. The girl got into his van and Cascante drove away, authorities said.
While in the car, Cascante is accused of bringing out a handgun and driving the girl around the city before molesting her.
Shortly after, he dropped her off near Cunningham and 9th streets. The girl ran home and reported the incident to her parents.
Deputies conducted an area check and located the suspect’s van parked near 18th and Guthrie streets. On Aug. 20, detectives served a search warrant at a home in the 2000 block of East 18th Street where Cascante was found.
He was arrested for kidnapping, lewd and lascivious acts with a child under 14 and lewd and lascivious acts with a child under 14 with force/fear. He remains in custody without bail.
Detectives believe other victims may exist and have released photos of Cascante and his vehicle, described as a white, older model ambulance-style van.
Anyone who may have been victimized by Cascante or has information on the case is asked to call the Highland Sheriff’s Station at 909-425-9793.
Anonymous tips can be provided to We-Tip at 1-800-782-7463 or online at wetip.com.
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