SAN DIEGO (KGTV) — A San Diego Police Sergeant was arrested Friday after the department was tipped off to individuals reportedly soliciting sex from minors.
Police say Joseph Ruvido, 49, was arrested in Carmel Valley and charged with one felony count of soliciting sex with a minor. A search warrant was served at the 21-year veteran's residence and he was taken into custody without incident.
Ruvido was assigned to the SDPD Watch Commander's Office, approving reports and and bookings. Prior to that, Ruvido was a patrol sergeant with the department's Eastern division, according to SDPD Chief David Nisleit.
"I assure you Sgt. Ruvido will be held accountable both criminally and administratively," Nisleit said. "We take this very, very seriously."
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"It is very embarrassing to have to talk about the arrest of one of our own," Nisleit added.
The chief said Ruvido has been suspended without pay as the investigation continues.
On Wednesday, police received a Crime Stoppers tip through the via the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) unit that multiple people may be soliciting sex from minors. Police identified one of the individuals as Ruvido and opened an investigation leading to his arrest.
Once Ruvido was identified, investigators conducted 24/7 surveillance with investigators from the San Diego District Attorney's Office, according to SDPD Lt. Jud Campbell.
SDPD declined to share any further details to protect the investigation, Nisleit said.
"We're going to be looking at everything," Nisleit said. "To the communities that we serve, every member of this department fully understands and strives to meet the expectations of this profession. We also understand in this instance, we let you down."
Anyone who believes they may be a victim or has any additional information they are encouraged to reach out to police at 619-531-2480 or Crime Stoppers at 888-580-8477.
