21-year-old Visalia man arrested on child molestation charges, deputies say

TULARE COUNTY, Calif. (KFSN) -- An accused child molester is in custody, and the Tulare County Sheriff's Office believes there could be more victims.

21-year-old Tyler See of Visalia pleaded not guilty Tuesday to 51 counts, after being arrested on Friday by the Tulare County Sheriff's Office.

The charges come after a month's long investigation.

"Back in August we received a call regarding an individual who has tried to meet with child - a 13-year-old for the purposes of sex," said Lt. Bryan Clower with the Tulare Co. Sheriff's Office.

Lt. Bryan Clower says they've also identified at least four victims between the ages of 12 and 15, and believe there are more in other counties.

"One of the things we learned in this investigation is that the suspect was using social media platforms to identify, contact, and communicate with the victims," said Lt. Clower.

The current charges are for allegations dating back to October of 20-23 involving two of the victims.

Legal analyst Tony Capozzi says that's also a reason the complaint lists several special circumstances.

"When you have more than one victim. You see multiple counts; you see the enhancements coming into play. And if this is something that is taking place over a long period of time, I can see where the enhancements are legitimate in this particular case if he's convicted," said legal analyst Tony Capozzi.

Capozzi adds that the charges can potentially send Tyler See to prison for decades.

"There's an allegation of 667 penal code, that says if it's a person under 14 a number of times and two victims, its 25 to life. So this person could face up to life," said Capozzi.

Authorities say this disturbing case is a reminder to keep an eye on what online platforms kids use and who they are engaging with.

"There are so many of them out there now that aren't in the mainstream; they're not really common, and the parents may not have heard about them. So, it's important that as a parent, especially with your children, pay attention to what information is being put out on social media," said Lt. Clower.

See is currently booked in the Tulare County jail and charged with child molestation and no bail.

Any additional victims are encouraged to come forward and contact the Tulare County Sheriff's Office.

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