Hays County Man Arrested for Allegedly Soliciting Nudes, Trafficking of Persons
DRIPPING SPRINGS, TX – A Harris County man has been arrested and charged with trafficking of persons after an inquiry revealed he allegedly solicited nude images and videos from numerous underage girls through Snapchat, according to the Hays County Sheriff’s Office. Patrick Zepeda, who used the display name “Adrian” with the username “acru556” on the platform, was taken into custody on Aug. 28 following the execution of a search and arrest warrant at his residence.
The investigation began in July with a report from a Dripping Springs resident alleging Zepeda provided a minor with vape products and alcohol in exchange for sexual favors. Authorities identified a related case within the Austin Police Department and uncovered digital evidence linking Zepeda to communications with multiple underage girls, where he allegedly requested sexual activity and offered “discounts” for compliance. Some victims reported purchasing alcohol and vapes from Zepeda without submitting to his demands.
Zepeda has been booked into the Harris County Jail on a first-degree felony charge of trafficking of persons/engaging in sexual conduct.His bond was set at $75,000, and he has sence been released.
The Hays County Sheriff’s Office is urging parents to closely monitor their children’s social media activity as online predators increasingly employ deceptive tactics to target minors.
Anyone with details regarding this case is encouraged to contact Det. Scott Zediker at 512-393-7799 or scott.zediker@hayscountytx.gov. Anonymous tips can be submitted to crime Stoppers at 1-800-324-8477 or online at www.P3tips.com.
