(FOX40.COM) — A 37-year-old man was arrested after he assaulted a teen girl in a hate crime while she was walking to school, according to the Fairfield Police Department.
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On Wednesday morning, Fairfield High School staff was notified that one of their students, a teenage girl, was assaulted by a man while walking to school. It was reported to the school resource officers, who responded to assist the victim.
According to FPD, the student was taken to a local hospital for an evaluation. During the investigation, officers learned that the student was walking near the 300 block of Dahlia Street when she was approached by a resident, later identified as Victor Viera Chavez, 37, of Fairfield.
Chavez allegedly confronted the student with vulgar, race-based language before physically assaulting her because of her perceived immigration status. A nearby resident witnessed the incident, helped the student, and transported her safely to Fairfield High School, according to FPD.
Subsequently, FPD launched a hate crime investigation and said it attempted to contact Chavez at his residence that same day. When initial attempts were unsuccessful, members of the Youth Services Unit set up surveillance near the suspect’s home the following morning. During the operation, officers said they saw Chavez leave his residence and arrested him.
Chavez was booked into the Solano County Jail. He faces charges of assault, child endangerment, and committing a hate crime.
“The Fairfield Police Department has zero tolerance for violence against our community and takes all allegations of hate crimes extremely seriously,” FPD said. “We remain committed to protecting every member of our community and ensuring that our schools remain safe places for students to learn and grow.”
FPD offered tips for students to stay safe while walking to school:
•Stay alert – Avoid distractions such as cell phones or headphones while walking. Be aware of your surroundings.
• Use familiar routes – Stick to well-lit, well-traveled paths and avoid shortcuts through alleys, fields, or isolated areas.
• Trust instincts – If something doesn’t feel right, leave the area and go to a safe place, such as a school, store, or friend’s house.
• Never talk to strangers – Do not accept rides, gifts, or help from anyone you don’t know, even if they seem friendly.
• Know safe spots – Identify trusted locations along the route where help can be received if needed.
• Report suspicious behavior – If approached or followed by a stranger, run to safety and tell a trusted adult immediately. Call 9-1-1 if you feel unsafe.
Veronica Catlin
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