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Yosemite-Area Rental Owner Arrested in Probe of Secret Guest Recordings and Child Abuse Files

An online tip paired with a task force probe shows how hidden crimes in short-term rentals can surface.

Overview

  • Christian Parmalee Edwards, 44, was arrested March 19 after detectives served a search warrant at his Oakhurst vacation rental near Yosemite National Park.
  • Detectives say they found more than 4,000 suspected child sexual abuse files, a lifelike child doll with its hands bound, and newly purchased children’s clothing.
  • Officials allege guests were secretly recorded during private moments, and they say Edwards was watching a recently recorded video when investigators arrived.
  • Investigators seized about 30 electronic devices for forensic review and requested rental‑platform records to help identify past guests and potential victims.
  • Edwards remains in custody on possession and distribution counts with bail set at $75,000, and officials say more charges, including invasion of privacy, could follow as they contact renters from 2023 through March 2026.