News Summary

Shaun Donald Hertlein, a 42-year-old man from Goleta, was arrested for multiple child sex crimes, including sending sexual images to minors. Community members are urged to report any further incidents related to Hertlein as law enforcement aims to assist potential additional victims. This incident raises concerns regarding safety in the local community and schools, prompting swift actions from educational institutions to protect children. The Sheriff’s Office provides resources to support survivors as the investigation unfolds.

Goleta Man Arrested for Multiple Child Sex Crimes, Authorities Seek Additional Victims

Goleta is reeling from shocking news as local resident Shaun Donald Hertlein, a 42-year-old man, was arrested on May 9, 2025, for serious allegations involving multiple child sex crimes. This arrest comes as a distressing reminder of the importance of safeguarding our children.

The Arrest and Allegations

The Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office announced Hertlein’s arrest on May 12, 2025, detailing a range of serious charges against him. Hertlein stands accused of sending sexual images to a minor, engaging in electronic communications with a minor with the intent to commit specific crimes, and possessing obscene images of children. The investigation into his actions kick-started in April 2025, focusing on disturbing reports of lewd images involving minors.

Connections to the Community

Hertlein wasn’t a stranger to the community; he had various roles involving children. He was affiliated with the South Coast Church, located near Cathedral Oaks Road in Goleta. Additionally, he served as an assistant coach for the freshman boys’ football team at Dos Pueblos High School during the 2024 season. This connection raised eyebrows, as it gives a clearer picture of how he interacted with minors in a trustworthy setting.

Immediate Action Taken

In light of these alarming accusations, Dos Pueblos Principal Bill Woodard confirmed that Hertlein is no longer linked with the school, emphasizing that he has been directed not to set foot on campus. This swift action reflects the school’s commitment to ensuring the safety of its students.

Bail and Treatment of the Situation

Upon his arrest, Hertlein was booked at the Main Jail, with his bail set at a staggering $500,000. This amount underscores the seriousness of the charges against him. Authorities are currently taking the situation very seriously and believe that there may be other individuals who have been affected by his actions. They are actively encouraging anyone who may have had contact with Hertlein to come forward, as additional survivors may be out there.

Community Response

The South Coast Church reacted promptly to the arrest, publicly acknowledging their awareness of the situation and expressing their commitment to cooperating fully with law enforcement. Hertlein was also previously associated with Coastline Christian Academy as a director as recently as 2024, though it is not clear what specific responsibilities he held in that role.

Support and Resources for Victims

The Sheriff’s Office is taking steps to support all survivors, providing resources including the Victim-Witness Assistance Program and Standing Together to End Sexual Assault (STESA). These organizations offer crucial support to those who need it, reinforcing that individuals don’t have to navigate this challenging path alone. If anyone has information about other crimes associated with Hertlein, the Sheriff’s Office has made it easy to reach out by providing a contact number: 805-681-4150.

Looking Ahead

As Goleta grapples with this unsettling news, community members are reminded of the importance of vigilance and communication in protecting their children. This troubling incident also follows closely after another employee at Dos Pueblos High School was arrested for sexual battery, shining a spotlight on the ongoing challenges surrounding the safety of minors in educational settings.

The closure of this chapter rests partly on community action; every voice matters. So if you or someone you know has been affected, don’t hesitate to reach out and use the resources available. Together, we can work to ensure the safety and well-being of our children.

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