Fresno man arrested again after posting bail in attempted rape of Tinder date, deputies say
A Fresno man who was arrested Saturday for allegedly kidnapping and attempting to rape a woman he met on a dating app was arrested again Thursday in Salinas after fleeing from Fresno County, according to local deputies.
Fresno County Sheriff’s Office spokesman Tony Botti said more victims have come forward and a warrant was issued for the arrest of 30-year-old Fabian Ornelas, who faces additional sexual assault charges.
His original bail of $243,500 has been revoked and he was returned to Fresno, where he was booked into Fresno County Jail with a $740,000 bail.
On Saturday, detectives went to a home in the 3900 block of Santa Fe Avenue after a report from a woman who said Ornelas attempted to kidnap and rape her, according to deputies.
The two met through the dating app Tinder, where Ornelas had a profile under the name “Dominick,” authorities said.
After spending time together, Ornelas would not let the woman leave and tried to sexually assault her, detectives said. She broke free before calling the Sheriff’s Office.
Investigators arrested Ornelas on suspicion of kidnapping, false imprisonment, attempted rape and other allegations, deputies said. He posted bail and was released Sunday.
Tinder removed Ornelas’ profile.
Investigators said it is possible that Ornelas previously committed similar acts.
Potential victims or anyone with additional information are asked to call Sgt. Chad Stokes at 559-600-8144.
This story was originally published June 18, 2020 at 7:19 PM.
