On November 17, 2024, around 4:00 in the afternoon, Mendocino County Sheriff’s deputies got a troubling call from a woman who feared something terrible had happened to her daughters. She told them there might have been sexual abuse, and deputies immediately started looking into it.
As they talked to the woman and gathered details, it became clear this wasn’t just a one-time incident. Investigators discovered that the abuse had been happening over a span of ten years, involving two young victims. At this point, the case was handed over to the Sheriff’s Investigations Bureau for a deeper probe. They soon identified the suspect: Matthew Adams, who wasn’t in the area at the time.
Detectives didn’t waste any time. They interviewed the victims, dug through evidence, and built a strong case that gave them enough reason to get a search warrant for Adams’ home. In the meantime, they found out Adams planned to return to the Willits area on November 20, 2024.
Knowing he might have caught wind of the investigation and could try to run, detectives kept a close eye on his movements. With help from the victims’ mother, they tracked him down in Willits. Once they found him, officers arrested Adams on two charges of continuous sexual abuse of a minor.
Adams was taken to Mendocino County Jail, where he’s being held with bail set at $750,000. The investigators suspect there could be more victims who haven’t yet come forward. They’re urging anyone with information about Adams or the case to reach out. People can contact the Sheriff’s Office Dispatch Center at 707-463-4086 or leave an anonymous tip at 707-234-2100.
This case is a stark reminder of the importance of speaking up and seeking justice, even in the face of such deeply personal and painful situations. Detectives are committed to uncovering the truth and ensuring that those impacted receive the support they need.
