SANTA ROSA, Calif. — A 26-year-old Santa Rosa man has been arrested twice in one week on disturbing charges, first for possessing child pornography and later for allegedly sexually assaulting a dog.
Jeremiah Ortega was initially taken into custody on Thursday, April 3, by detectives from the Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office after an investigation revealed he was in possession of a large collection of child pornography. Ortega was arrested in the 100 block of Bellevue Avenue, but was released on Monday, April 7, following a court appearance.
However, the investigation took a darker turn when detectives discovered videos on Ortega’s electronic devices showing him allegedly sexually assaulting a small dog. Authorities were able to identify the dog and the location of the alleged crime. Sonoma County Animal Services was called to take the dog into their care for examination.
As a result of these new findings, Ortega was re-arrested on Wednesday, April 9, on charges of felony animal cruelty, misdemeanor sexual assault of an animal, and probation violation. Ortega remains in custody at the Sonoma County Main Adult Detention Facility, with bail set at $77,000.
The case began in June 2024 when law enforcement received a tip about the online sexual exploitation of children. Investigators then executed a search warrant at a residence in the 800 block of Boyd Street, Santa Rosa, where they found an extensive amount of child pornography on Ortega’s devices. The discovery led to his first arrest.
Authorities have described the charges against Ortega as particularly disturbing, noting the severity of both the child exploitation and animal cruelty allegations. The Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office has continued to urge the public to come forward with any additional information regarding the case.
As the investigation continues, the dog involved in the alleged assault is receiving medical attention and care. The community has been left shaken by the details emerging from the case, as the investigation into Ortega’s activities continues to unfold.