Poway child-sexual-assault case: Jose Santana, 36, arrested, sheriff says

- San Diego Sheriff's deputies arrested 36-year-old Jose Santana on Wednesday after a four-day manhunt for the alleged sexual assault of a 10-year-old girl in Poway. - The assault occurred on Saturday, May 3, 2026, at a home in the 13000 block of Glencliff Place, prompting an immediate search after Santana fled. - Santana faces felony charges including lewd acts on a child under 14, with no prior record noted; held on $1 million bail as the investigation continues amid community alerts.

Jose Santana, 36, is in custody after San Diego County sheriff's deputies ended a manhunt for the man accused of sexually assaulting a 10-year-old girl in Poway. The arrest came Wednesday evening, four days after the attack at a home in the 13000 block of Glencliff Place. Authorities say the girl knew her alleged attacker — it happened inside the residence. This case underscores the hidden dangers in familiar settings, with quick public tips leading to his capture near the U.S.-Mexico border. (patch.com) ### What exactly happened? The assault took place Saturday, May 3, around 2 p.m. Deputies responded to a 911 call from the girl's family. She reported Santana — someone she knew — had sexually assaulted her before fleeing the scene on foot. No weapon was involved, and she wasn't seriously injured beyond the assault itself. The Sheriff's Child Abuse Unit took over immediately, interviewing the victim and witnesses. (fox5sandiego.com) ### Why did the manhunt last four days? Santana vanished right after the attack, prompting an emergency alert with his photo and description: 5-foot-8, 180 pounds, black hair, brown eyes, last seen in a black shirt and jeans. Deputies searched Poway neighborhoods and checked local spots, but he dodged them initially. Turns out, tips from residents were key — one came in Wednesday pinpointing him near Otay Mesa, close to the border. SWAT and border agents boxed him in without incident around 6 p.m. (nbcsandiego.com) ### What charges does he face? Booked into Vista Detention Facility Thursday morning, Santana faces multiple felonies: lewd or lascivious acts with a child under 14, plus assault with

Get your own daily briefing

Scout delivers personalized news, insights, and conversations tailored to your role and industry.

Download on the App Store

Shared from Scout - Be the smartest in the room.