San Joaquin County District Attorney Ron Freitas announced that a jury has convicted Gerardo Antonio Garcia Aguilar on five counts of lewd acts upon a minor, ending a nearly 20-year cycle of abuse involving three separate victims. The verdict was delivered on March 11, 2026, in the courtroom of the Honorable Judge Villapudua.

The evidence presented during the trial revealed a predatory pattern dating back to 2007, where the defendant consistently exploited his role as a father figure or trusted adult to target children within his own household. The jury returned guilty verdicts on all counts, further finding true special allegations regarding the victims' ages and the defendant’s gross violation of a position of trust.

"To the survivors who stood up in that courtroom: your courage is the reason a predator is off our streets today," said District Attorney Ron Freitas. "There is no greater betrayal than a man who uses the sanctuary of a home to harm a child. My office is here to be a voice for the vulnerable and a shield for our youth. We will continue to stand firmly against those who steal the innocence of our children, ensuring they face the full weight of the law. Today, the justice you deserve has finally been served."

District Attorney Freitas extended his deepest gratitude to Deputy District Attorney Kristi Kooger for her relentless and skillful prosecution of this case. Special appreciation is also due to Stockton Police Detective Fernando Romero for his thorough investigation, and to Victim Advocates Heidi Ramirez, Vanessa Elizondo, and Grace Abshear for their dedicated, and compassionate support of the victims.

The defendant faces a sentence of 25 years to life in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for April 20, 2026, at 9:00 AM in Department 9B.