Placerville, Feb. 6, 2024 – A chilling case involving a 19-year-old Shasta County man, identified as Ryan Lee Byers, unfolds as he faces felony charges for sending explicit content and making criminal threats to girls residing in a Placerville youth shelter. The Placerville Police Department (PPD) initiated an investigation after receiving a call to the shelter on January 13, revealing a disturbing pattern of threats escalating to explicit images and videos.
Suspect Identified: Ryan Lee Byers
Detectives from PPD’s Crime Reduction Unit identified Byers as the suspect behind the explicit messages and threats. On February 2, the El Dorado County Superior Court granted an arrest warrant for Byers and a search warrant for his Shasta residence.
Explicit Content via Instagram: Threats of Sexual Assault and Violence
Byers allegedly used the social media app Instagram to send explicit images and videos of himself to girls at the Placerville youth shelter. The investigation revealed that the suspect escalated to sending threatening messages, some featuring him brandishing firearms. The threats included warnings of sexual assault and violence directed at the victims.
Search Warrant Execution and Firearms Seized
During the execution of the search warrant at Byers’ Shasta home, law enforcement discovered numerous firearms and ammunition. The firearms matched those displayed by Byers in the threatening Instagram messages. Additional evidence, including electronic devices, was seized for forensic analysis, potentially shedding light on the extent of Byers’ online activities.
Charges and Bail Amount
Ryan Lee Byers faces several felony charges, including making criminal threats, sending harmful matter with sexual intent to a minor, and stalking. Additionally, a misdemeanor charge of annoying/molesting a minor has been leveled against him. His bail is set at $150,000.
Police Caution: Be Vigilant on Social Media
In response to this alarming case, the Placerville Police Department urges caution when engaging in internet activities, particularly on social media platforms. The importance of online safety is emphasized, and resources are provided for those seeking information on the potential dangers of internet use.
Acknowledging Victims’ Courage
In a press release, Placerville police commended the victims for their courage in coming forward and initiating the case. Authorities encourage anyone with information relevant to the investigation to contact Crime Reduction Unit Sgt. Luke Gadow at (530) 642-5210.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the arrest of Ryan Lee Byers serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with online interactions and the commitment of law enforcement to protect vulnerable individuals from digital predators. Stay tuned for updates as the investigation progresses.**
