Santa Ana Man Pleads Not Guilty in Kidnapping Case

Sergio Estrada, a 19-year-old from Santa Ana, was arrested in east Bakersfield after allegedly kidnapping a 14-year-old girl he met through Fortnite and social media over two years. The girl, reported missing by her mother, was found safe with Estrada by deputies. Estrada faces multiple felony charges, including child stealing, contacting a minor to commit a sexual offense, exhibiting harmful material to a minor, and possession of matter depicting a minor engaged in sexual conduct. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges and is held on $100,000 bail, with his next court appearance scheduled for June 26. The case has prompted renewed warnings for parents to monitor their children's online activities. Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact the Kern County Sheriff’s Office.