A New York man was arrested in Turlock earlier this week after allegations surfaced that he had engaged in sexual relations with a teenager.
Joseph Peritore, 22, of New York was taken into custody on Feb. 5 on allegations of felony unlawful sexual intercourse with a minor under the age of 16 years; felony sodomy of a minor under the age of 16 years; oral copulation of a minor under the age of 16 years; possession of child pornography; and contacting a minor with the intent to commit a felony.
The allegations against Peritore were lodged by the family of a 15-year-old girl after they found sexually explicit pictures on her cell phone, said Turlock Police spokesperson Officer Steve Rodrigues.
When questioned the 15-year-old told investigators she had been communicating and exchanging photographs with the suspect for four years. She stated they met over the internet.
Peritore came to Turlock on the weekend of Feb. 3 and 4 and had sexual relations with the teenager. The images on the cell phone were discovered by the family after the two had met. The girl stated it was the first time they had met in person.
Peritore was taken into custody at a Turlock hotel.
Jail records show Peritore is no longer in custody and charges have not been filed against him at this time.