14-year-old Monterey County girl rescued in Mexico; father accused of incest arrested

SALINAS, California. —

A 14-year-old Monterey County girl who was the subject of an Amber Alert was rescued in Mexico and her father, Sergio Galvez Perez, was arrested, the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office said.

Sheriff Tina Nieto said detectives worked with the FBI and Mexican authorities to ensure the rescue of Diana Galvez Ortega. Perez was arrested during the operation after being found in possession of narcotics, according to the sheriff’s office.

“Diana is safe and is currently in the custody of local authorities in Mexico,” Nieto said.

The sheriff’s office said Mexican authorities were aware of the charges against Perez in Monterey County for alleged crimes against Diana. The sheriff’s office identified Diana as the victim. She has not been charged in connection with this case.

Perez was accused of sexually abusing and impregnating his daughter. Their newborn baby was found dead near a Moss Landing strawberry field on August 1.

The Monterey County District Attorney’s Office previously said Diana had not been charged in connection with the newborn’s death. However, the prosecutor’s office charged his father.

Galvez Perez was charged in Monterey County Superior Court with three counts:

• Lewd Act on a Child: The complaint alleges that between November 1, 2025 and April 21, 2026, Galvez Perez committed the crime against a girl under the age of 14. The charge includes an enhancement alleging aggravated circumstances and stating that “the defendant personally inflicted great bodily injury during the commission” of the alleged crime.
• Incest: The complaint alleges that between November 1, 2025 and April 21, 2026, Galvez Perez committed incest with the same female victim.
• Child Abuse: The complaint alleges that between November 1, 2025 and August 5, 2026, Galvez Perez willfully and unlawfully injured, caused and permitted Jane Doe, a child in his care and custody, to suffer unjustifiable physical and mental pain. He also alleges that he placed her in a situation putting her person and health in danger.

The sheriff’s office said it will provide more information at a news conference scheduled for a later date. They did not say where they were found in Mexico.

The sheriff’s office also has not said whether Diana will be charged in any way for the newborn’s death.

The investigation remains active.