Prowler arrested in North County; charges include sexual assaults on children

Gilbert Andrew Chavarria is in custody on charges of breaking into childrens' bedrooms in the North County area and sexually assaulting them. Chavarria was taken into custody on February 16th after DNA and other evidence linked him to four cases.

His crime spree started in June 2013 around Escondido and San Marcos. Chavarria broke into homes by removing or cutting the screen from open windows in the early morning hours.

He cut pieces of the victims' pajamas during assaults and was so brazen he would commit the crime while parents were asleep in the room and only feet away from the children.

The victims were between the ages of 5 and 15.

Chavarria is booked in Vista Jail and bail is set at $4.5 million. He is scheduled to face a judge on Thursday, Feb.19 at 1:30 p.m.

Chavarria might have other victims.

Anyone with information about Chavarria or possible victims are urged to call the Sheriff's Department at (858) 565-5200 or Escondido Police at (760) 839-4722.

It is the policy of the Sheriff's Department not to release information on juvenile victims.

Victims and tipsters can remain anonymous by calling Crime Stoppers at (888) 580-8477.