Press release from the Humboldt County District Attorney’s Office:

Today, Judge Kelly Neel sentenced Manuel Garcia Avalos, 45, of Fortuna, to 30 years in prison after he pled guilty to multiple felony sex offenses committed against three young girls.

In 2015, two of the girls disclosed the abuse to the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office. At that time, charges were not filed due to insufficient evidence. A significant challenge in the initial investigation was an adult family member who provided Garcia Avalos with an alibi.

In 2021, the case was reopened after a third victim — only 12 years old — was found to be communicating with Garcia Avalos via Facebook messages. The messages, discovered by her guardian, revealed the young girl was bravely attempting to document the abuse to ensure that she would be believed. Her efforts were instrumental in bringing the case forward.

Following this discovery, Garcia Avalos was arrested. Humboldt County District Attorney Investigator Ryan Hill interviewed Garcia Avalos and confronted him with the message evidence. Garcia Avalos admitted to sending the messages but denied they were sexual in nature.

During the course of the legal proceedings, the third victim passed away. The loss of her young life has profoundly impacted her family, the community, and everyone involved in seeking justice in this case.

Despite this tragedy, the two older victims showed extraordinary strength by testifying against Garcia Avalos. Their courage was critical in holding Garcia Avalos accountable.

“This case underscores the devastating and long-lasting effects of child sexual abuse — not only on the individual victims, but on their families and our entire community,” said District Attorney Stacey Eads. “We are deeply grateful to the victims for their bravery and resolve in helping bring this offender to justice.”

The Humboldt County District Attorney’s Office extends its heartfelt condolences to the family of the third victim and commends the strength and resilience of all three young girls.

The case was prosecuted by Senior Deputy District Attorney Whitney Timm, with assistance from District Attorney Investigator Ryan Hill and Victim Witness Advocate Keosha Chambers.