Crime & Safety
Pleasanton Police Comment On Phone Recording Suspect
Pleasanton police thanked the community for helping them identify Jesus Castro-Léon, a suspect accused of recording hundreds of women.
PLEASANTON, CA — Pleasanton police released a statement on the case of Jesus Castro-Léon, who was arrested on charges of assaulting a woman he was trying to record while she was sitting on the toilet stall.
On Dec. 1, Castro-Léon, 26 of Livermore, allegedly followed a woman into the bathroom of a 99 Ranch in Pleasanton, then recorded her with his cell phone, according to Pleasanton police and Alameda County DA records reported by other outlets. The woman saw him recording her, and tried to defend herself, but he attacked her.
The victim filed a police report, and Pleasanton police posted security camera footage to social media. Thanks to responses, they were able to identify Castro-Léon. On Jan. 4, he voluntarily visited the police department to ask about the post, police said. He was arrested for allegedly trying to interfere with a police investigation, and police seized his cell phone. Police say his phone contained over 250 non-consensual recordings of other women.
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“This is a sensitive case,” PPD Lt. Erik Silacci said in a statement. “We thank the community for their responsiveness in helping identify the suspect. More important, we commend the woman who courageously reported her frightening encounter, which resulted in the suspect’s arrest. We are continuing to investigate to ensure that Castro-Leon is held responsible for his crimes.”
Anyone who believes they were a victim is encouraged to contact their local police department.
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