Modesto Youth Soccer Coach Arrested on Child Pornography Charges

MODESTO, Calif. — Efrain Aguayo Jr., a 32-year-old youth soccer coach, has been arrested on charges of possessing child pornography, according to the Modesto Police Department. His arrest marks the second incident involving a coach from the same nonprofit soccer organization this year.

Police reported that the investigation began after receiving multiple tips from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). Authorities executed a search warrant at Aguayo’s home and seized several electronic devices for forensic analysis.

Aguayo was employed by Ajax United, a nonprofit organization associated with the Modesto Youth Soccer Association. Marcus Raposas, the executive director of Ajax United, expressed his disappointment, stating, “a little bit of anger, but more disappointment. It’s really disheartening to be honest with you.”

Raposas emphasized that all coaches undergo thorough background checks, including a Department of Justice live scan. He noted that Aguayo had submitted to three separate checks due to his involvement in other programs. “We do do a very, very thorough job. The programs that we’re in won’t even issue licenses or cards to these coaches if those background checks aren’t completed,” Raposas said.

Following Aguayo’s arrest, the organization promptly reached out to families to inform them of the situation. Raposas added, “We’re vetting these people out. It’s an unfortunate situation and one that we’re always looking to improve on.”

This incident follows the earlier arrest of another Modesto youth soccer coach, Matthew Paez, who faced similar charges in July. Both coaches were employed by MYSA-Ajax United during the same period, according to sources close to the organization. However, police noted there is currently no evidence that any players were directly affected in either case.

The Modesto Police Department and Stanislaus County District Attorney’s Office have not yet responded to requests for additional details regarding the ongoing investigation. Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers at (866) 602-7463.