Sergio Sanchez Horta was arraigned on Monday, April 13, 2026, on numerous serious felony charges stemming from two separate violent incidents involving an adult and a juvenile victim, following a multi-agency investigation involving the Stockton Police Department and the Contra Costa Sheriff’s Office.

 The defendant is charged with the following offenses and, if convicted, faces a potential sentence of life in prison:

• Attempted Murder (Penal Code §§ 664/187) with a firearm discharge enhancement (12022.53(d)) and a great bodily injury enhancement (12022.7(a))
• Rape by Force or Fear (261(a)(2)) with a firearm use enhancement (12022.53(b))
• Lewd Act with a Minor (288(c)(1))
• Assault with a Semiautomatic Firearm (245(b)) – two counts, one with a great bodily injury enhancement (12022.7(a))
• Criminal Threats (422(a))
• Felon in Possession of a Firearm (29800(a)(1)) – two counts
• Prohibited Person in Possession of Ammunition (30305(a)(1))
• Sex Crimes Enhancement (667.61(e)(3))
  

The charges stem from two separate incidents on Navy Drive involving two identified victims, one juvenile and one adult.

In December 2025, the defendant allegedly picked up a juvenile victim while driving a white van with black lettering on the side. He allegedly sexually assaulted her at gunpoint and later released her.

In January 2026, the defendant allegedly picked up an adult victim in the same white van with black lettering on the side. The victim became scared when she saw a firearm and escaped by opening the van door, but not before being shot by the defendant. 

Sergio Sanchez Horta remains in custody and is being held without bail. His next court appearance is scheduled for May 1, 2026. He is facing life in prison.

“The violent and predatory nature of these crimes is deeply concerning,” said District Attorney Ron Freitas. “Our office is committed to seeking justice for the victims and ensuring that this individual is held fully accountable. We encourage anyone who may have had contact with this suspect to come forward. Your information could be critical in protecting others and bringing additional victims the support they deserve.”

The District Attorney’s Office is seeking additional victims. We encourage anyone with information or who may have been victimized to contact the Anti-Sex and Labor Trafficking Taskforce (ASALT) at (209) 468-2443.