HAYS COUNTY, Texas — A Harris County man is facing felony charges for allegedly exploiting children online, the Hays County Sheriff's Office announced on Thursday.

On July 14, 2025, the sheriff's office said it received a report from a Dripping Springs resident regarding allegations of a man offering a vape and alcohol to a minor in exchange for sexual favors.

During the investigation, investigators and crime analysts identified a similar case under investigation by Austin police.

After reviewing digital evidence, investigators say they later identified the suspect as Patrick Zepeda.

Investigators conducted a search at Zepeda's residence in Harris County on Aug. 28, 2025. Authorities say evidence revealed Zepeda allegedly communicated with multiple underage girls through Snapchat.

Zep

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