Pleasanton man accused of preying on underage girls using Snapchat

(KRON) — A Pleasanton man is accused of using Snapchat to contact underage girls, exchange “hundreds of inappropriate conversations,” and commit sex crimes against victims, the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office said.

William V. Coultrip, 19, allegedly “used social media to prey on teenage girls,” the sheriff’s office wrote.

Investigators said Coultrip used multiple fake names online, including “John Kelly” and “Josh Foire.”

An investigation into Coultrip began in July when a girl reported that she was victimized in San Mateo County. The girl did not know her assailant’s identity, investigators said.

The sheriff’s office launched an investigation that included using Automated License Plate Reader cameras, probing social media accounts, and other methods.

Detectives uncovered evidence that Coultrip “would often drive to the victims, or request they take public transportation to meet him in-person. Many of the conversations included the exchange of Child Sexual Abuse Material,” the sheriff’s office wrote.

Deputies and Pleasanton police officers arrested Coultrip on August 15. He was booked into a San Mateo County jail on the following charges:

• Sexual penetration with a victim under 18 years old.
• Assault with intent to commit a felony.
• Arranging to meet with a minor for lewd purposes.
• Contacting a minor for sexual purposes.
• Sending harmful matter to a minor.

The sheriff’s office wrote Tuesday, “Investigators believe there are additional unidentified victims and are encouraging anyone with information to come forward. Those who recognize Coultrip and have further information are asked to contact Detective Nicole Pitts.”

Detective Pitts can be contacted by emailing npitts@smcgov.org or by calling 650-363-4060. Anonymous tips can also be submitted by calling the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office Anonymous Tip Line at 1-800-547-2700.

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