People v. Singh CA3

BACKGROUND

I. In June 2020, sheriff’s deputy Christopher Sterni was assigned to a special operation that placed advertisements on Craigslist posing as young girls. Sterni posted an advertisement with a phone number in Missed Connections, a section on the Craigslist website where people look for sexual relationships. The advertisement, titled “Small town girl, Lathrop,” stated, “Hey guys, free during the daytime to hang with. Wanting a good time. Hit me up.” On June 17, 2020, Singh texted, “Hi,” to the number in the advertisement followed by a text message stating, “I’m free to hang today. Got my own place, ride, and $.” On June 18, 2020, Sterni responded: “Nice, I don’t drive, sorry. My parents had my phone yesterday, just got it back.” After Sterni and Singh texted each other that they were free that day, Sterni wrote, “tell me a little bit about you.” Singh responded: “I’m [36] from Manteca, height 5-10.” Sterni responded: “That’s good. I’m younger, hope it won’t bother you.” Singh texted: “Are you at least 21?” Sterni responded: “No.” Singh sent another text: “18? LOL [laugh out loud].” Sterni responded: “But I’m not . . . here looking for a relationship.” Singh sent back a…