Substitute Teacher Arrested for Sex Crime with Juvenile

Rakshannah Gopal Ranney,40

HESPERIA:(VVNG.com)- On Sunday July 20th at approximately 1:00 a.m., Hesperia Deputy Chuck Foster conducted a suspicious vehicle check on a black BMW parked in the area of Ivy Avenue and Alder Street in Hesperia. Deputy Foster contacted a 40-year-old male and a female juvenile inside the vehicle who appeared to be engaged in sexual activity.

The male, later identified as 40-year-old Rakshannah Ranney, from Apple Valley and a 16-year-old female juvenile, also from Apple Valley were transported to the Hesperia station.

On call Detectives responded and through their investigation determined Ranney and the victim were involved in an ongoing sexual relationship. They believe the two met on the internet and also discovered that the suspect Ranney is a substitute teacher for the Adelanto School District. Detectives secured and executed search warrants for the suspect’s vehicle and his residence in Apple Valley seizing computers and other electronic equipment in an effort to locate other potential victims.

Rakshannah Ranney was arrested and booked at High Desert Detention Center for PC288a(b)(1), lewd lascivious acts by force resulting in psychological harm to victim; PC261.5(c), unlawful sex with minor more than 3 years younger; PC288.3, contact minor with intent to commit sexual offense; PC459, burglary with his bail set at $125, 000.00.

The victim, who is not currently a student of the suspect, was released to her guardian.

Anyone with information regarding this case is asked to please contact the detective bureau at the Hesperia Station, 760-947-1500. This is an ongoing effort by the Sheriff’s Department to protect the communities it serves. Citizens are encouraged to contact the Sheriff’s Department or WE-TIP(1-800-87-CRIME, www.wetip.com) to report suspicious or criminal activity and can remain anonymous.

source: San Bernardino County Sheriff press release