42 Arrested in Major Child Exploitation Sting in Inland Empire
Operation Volcano Uncovers Widespread Child Exploitation in Riverside County
RIVERSIDE COUNTY, Calif. – A significant multi-agency operation known as Operation Volcano has culminated in 42 arrests following a yearlong investigation into the distribution of child sexual abuse material across Riverside County. The initiative, spearheaded by the Riverside County Child Exploitation Team (RCCET), has also led to the identification of over 500 suspected distributors.
The investigation, conducted from March 2025 to March 2026, utilized a structured triage methodology to trace more than 500 unique IP addresses associated with the sharing of illicit content, according to the Riverside County District Attorney’s Office. Of those arrested, 14 individuals have been identified as high-risk offenders, including professionals such as a child psychologist, a naturopathic doctor, and a chief technology officer from a hospital.
Among those apprehended was one suspect with an outstanding $2 million warrant for child sexual assault. The operation saw collaboration with nonprofit organization O.U.R. Rescue, which provided vital resources throughout the investigation.
Notable arrests in connection with Operation Volcano include:
- Feliciano Chavarria, 62, Lake Elsinore
- Enrique Castaneda, 51, Riverside
- Eric Thai, 43, Menifee
- James Munson, 32, San Jacinto
- William Zahn, 48, Riverside
- John Carrico, 52, Murrieta
Authorities executed 46 search warrants during the operation, and while the immediate results are substantial, the investigation remains ongoing. The Riverside County District Attorney’s Office, along with federal partners such as Homeland Security Investigations and the FBI, continue to analyze evidence gathered in the raids to identify further victims and potential co-conspirators.
Law enforcement encourages the community to remain vigilant and report any suspected child exploitation or suspicious online behavior. Tips can be shared with the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) or local law enforcement agencies, as officials emphasize the importance of monitoring children’s digital activities and utilizing available safety resources to prevent online grooming and exposure to harmful content.
