Press release from the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office:

In late April 2025, the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) was alerted to a report of ongoing sexual assault of a minor having occurred at an undisclosed location on Indianola Reservation Rd., Loleta. HCSO’s Major Crimes Division (MCD) was assigned to the case given the severity of the allegation(s).

Based upon MCD’s extensive investigation, sufficient probable cause was established to seek a Ramey Warrant for the arrest of the suspect, Jarred Vaughan (age 22 of Loleta).

On the morning of May 2, 2025, MCD, assisted by HCSO Patrol, HCSO Special Services, HCSO Animal Control, and Humboldt County Child Welfare Services served a Search Warrant at the Indianola Reservation Rd. property. Evidence relating to the alleged sexual assault was located on scene and collected.

Vaughan was later booked into the Humboldt County Correctional Facility for the following charges: 

• Rape by Force or Fear – PC 261(a)(2)
  
• Unlawful Sex with a Minor more than three years younger – PC 261.5(c)
  
• Oral Copulation by Force or Fear of a Minor who is 14 or older – PC 287(c)(2)(c)
• Sex Trafficking a Minor – PC 236.1(c)
  

Special appreciation is extended to the Multi-Disciplinary Forensic Interview team at C.A.S.T., Advocates with North Coast Rape Crisis and Victim/Witness, and Social Workers with Child Welfare Services for their professionalism and collaboration during this sensitive investigation.

Anyone with information about this case or related criminal activity is encouraged to call the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office at (707) 445-7251 or the Sheriff’s Office Crime Tip line at (707) 268-2539.