Introduction to the Case
Riverside County sheriff’s officials are investigating a report of child abuse that is related to the case of missing 7-month-old Emmanuel Haro, whose parents were arrested Friday, Aug. 22, at their Cabazon home on suspicion of killing their son.
Riverside County Sheriff’s Lt. Deirdre Vickers confirmed Saturday night, Aug. 23, that deputies were sent Thursday, Aug. 21 — the day before the arrests of Jake and Rebecca Haro — to the 23000 block of Cottonwood Avenue in Moreno Valley regarding a report of child abuse.
Investigation Details
“Investigators responded to the location regarding the allegations, and the investigation remains ongoing,” the statement issued by Vickers said.
Related: Parents of missing Cabazon baby are arrested on suspicion of murder
Suspects and Charges
Jake Haro, a 32-year-old Cabazon resident, was arrested Friday, Aug. 22, 2025, on suspicion of murder. (Courtesy of the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department)
Rebecca Haro, a 41-year-old Cabazon resident, was arrested Friday, Aug. 22, 2025, on suspicion of murder. (Courtesy of the San Bernardino Sheriff’s Department)
Authorities continue to search for 7-month-old Emmanuel Haro, whose parents were arrested Friday, Aug. 22, 2025, on suspicion of murder. (Courtesy of San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department)
Vickers added that no arrests had been made in connection with Thursday’s investigation. The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department would not release further details, she said Saturday night.
Previous Incidents
In 2018, Jake Haro, 32, was charged with willful child cruelty in Riverside County, together with an apparently different spouse, Vanessa Haro, after their 10-week-old infant daughter was admitted to Hemet Valley Hospital with broken bones.
In 2023, Jake Haro pleaded guilty directly to a judge, who sentenced him to 180 days in the sheriff’s work-release program. Jake Haro received a suspended four-year prison sentence and was ordered to attend a child abuser treatment program. It was not a plea agreement with the Riverside County District Attorney’s office, spokesperson Amy McKenzie has said.
Vanessa Haro also pleaded guilty, got 120 days in the work-release program and was ordered to a child abuser treatment program.
Current Status
After the parents’ arrest, San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department officials said they believe Emmanuel is dead and they are searching for his remains.
Rebecca Haro, 41, told police on Aug. 14 that she was attacked outside a Big 5 Sporting Goods store in Yucaipa and knocked unconscious. When she came to, she said Emmanuel was missing. Investigators soon zeroed in on what they called “inconsistencies in her initial statement,” and determined the kidnapping did not happen after searching the couple’s home and reviewing surveillance video.
In the current case, which has generated nationwide attention, the couple is being held at Riverside County jail without bail.
A vigil for the missing 7-month-old drew 100 people to a memorial near the family’s Cabazon home on Friday.
Conclusion
The case of missing 7-month-old Emmanuel Haro has taken a devastating turn with the arrest of his parents on suspicion of murder. As the investigation continues, the community remains in shock and is seeking justice for the young child. The previous incidents of child abuse involving Jake Haro raise concerns about the system’s ability to protect vulnerable children. The search for Emmanuel’s remains continues, and the community holds on to the hope that justice will be served.
FAQs
Q: What is the current status of the investigation?
A: The investigation is ongoing, and the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department is searching for Emmanuel’s remains.
Q: What were the parents charged with?
A: Jake and Rebecca Haro were arrested on suspicion of murder.
Q: Were there any previous incidents of child abuse involving the parents?
A: Yes, Jake Haro was charged with willful child cruelty in 2018 and pleaded guilty in 2023.
Q: What is the community’s response to the case?
A: The community is in shock and is seeking justice for Emmanuel. A vigil was held near the family’s home, and people are calling for accountability.
