Undercover Operation Leads to Arrest (Image Credits: Unsplash)
Riverside County — A licensed school psychologist from Yucaipa walked into a law enforcement trap when he arrived for a meeting with someone he believed to be a 13-year-old child. Paul Ryan Coleman, 46, exchanged hundreds of sexually explicit messages over three months with an undercover investigator posing as the minor.[1][2] Authorities arrested him in Riverside on March 12, 2026, capping an investigation by the Riverside County Child Exploitation Team.[3] The case highlights the hidden risks posed by online interactions even among trusted professionals.
Undercover Operation Leads to Arrest
Coleman initiated contact with the undercover investigator and engaged in prolonged communication. He sent numerous explicit messages detailing sexual intentions toward the purported child. Investigators monitored these exchanges closely throughout the three-month probe.[1]
On March 12, Coleman drove from his Yucaipa home to Riverside, expecting to meet the 13-year-old. Members of the Child Exploitation Team took him into custody upon arrival. The operation exposed his plans without any actual minor becoming involved.[2][4]
Such stings rely on digital surveillance and precise coordination. Prosecutors later detailed how Coleman’s actions met the criteria for felony offenses. The swift arrest prevented potential harm.[5]
Felony Charges Filed Against Coleman
Riverside County prosecutors filed three felony counts against Coleman on March 17, 2026. The charges included attempted child molestation under Penal Code 664/288(a), arranging to meet a minor for sex under PC 288.4, and arranging to meet a minor for sexual gratification under PC 288.3(a).[2]
- Attempted lewd act upon a child
- Meeting minor for lewd purposes
- Contacting minor with sexual intent
During his arraignment that day, Coleman entered a not guilty plea to all counts. The court scheduled his next appearance, a felony settlement conference, for March 26 at 8:30 a.m. in Department 53 of the Riverside Hall of Justice.[1]
Officials emphasized the severity of the allegations. Each charge carries potential prison time if convicted. The district attorney’s office continues to seek information from possible victims.[3]
Employment at Nuview Union School District
Coleman worked as a school psychologist at Nuview Union School District, including Nuview Bridge Early College High School in Nuevo. The district serves students east of Perris in Riverside County. He held a license in his field, placing him in daily contact with children.[2]
The district learned of the charges and placed Coleman on administrative leave immediately. He submitted his resignation last month and will not return for the coming school year. District leaders notified parents through a written statement.[1]
In the message, officials expressed dismay. “We were shocked and disturbed by the news of the charges,” the statement read. “Once we received information about the charges, we immediately placed Mr. Coleman on administrative leave.” The district added that no students appeared involved in the incidents.[1]
| Key Timeline | Date |
|---|---|
| Investigation begins | Early January 2026 (approx.) |
| Arrest in Riverside | March 12, 2026 |
| Charges filed | March 17, 2026 |
| Arraignment and plea | March 17, 2026 |
| Next hearing | March 26, 2026 |
Community Reaction and Ongoing Investigation
News of the arrest spread quickly through local communities. Parents in Nuevo voiced concerns on social media about notification timing. Some questioned why alerts came after the fact, urging families to speak with children.[1]
The Riverside County District Attorney’s office urged vigilance. Investigators encouraged tips from anyone with information. Senior Investigator Edwin Tapia can be reached at edwintapia@rivcoda.org.[2]
Authorities stressed that the probe remains active. No links surfaced to district students, but outreach continues. The case underscores the value of specialized teams targeting online threats.[4]
Key Takeaways
- Three-month sting prevented real-world contact with a minor.
- Coleman resigned from Nuview Union amid swift district action.
- Public urged to report suspicions to investigators.
This arrest serves as a stark reminder of predators hiding in plain sight. Law enforcement’s proactive measures protect vulnerable youth daily. What steps can communities take to stay safer online? Share your thoughts in the comments.
