Manteca Police Officer Faces Sexual Assault Charges Stemming From Ripon Police Department Investigation

A Manteca police officer turned himself in to San Joaquin County Jail on Monday following charges of multiple sexual offenses, marking a significant development in a case that has shaken the local law enforcement community.

Officer Ryan Castro faces serious allegations, including oral copulation of an intoxicated person, digital penetration of an intoxicated person, and assault with intent to commit a sexual offense, according to the San Joaquin County District Attorney's Office.

The alleged incidents took place here in Ripon while Castro was off-duty. Manteca Police Department officials report they first became aware of the investigation on May 1, 2024, at which point they immediately placed Castro on paid administrative leave.

Castro, who joined the Manteca Police Department in June 2018 after serving with the San Joaquin County Sheriff's Office, now faces an internal administrative process following the filing of criminal charges.

The San Joaquin County District Attorney's office emphasized the gravity of the situation in a statement: "The arrest of Officer Ryan Castro reinforces a fundamental principle: no one is above the law. Officer Castro, like any individual, will be held accountable for his actions as the legal proceedings move forward."

Prosecutors have pledged to ensure justice through what they describe as "a fair and thorough judicial process," adding that they will "continue to work diligently to uphold the integrity of our justice system and ensure that the facts of this case are fully examined in court."