Los Angeles, California — A Southern California babysitter is behind bars after authorities say he committed lewd acts against a child, prompting investigators to now search for additional victims who may not yet have come forward. The arrest has raised serious concerns about online childcare platforms and the safety of families who rely on them.
The suspect was identified as 28-year-old Vincent Smith, according to the Torrance Police Department. Detectives say Smith allegedly committed the crimes while working as a babysitter in the Los Angeles area.
Arrest follows investigation into alleged abuse
Police said Smith was taken into custody on December 9, 2025, following an investigation into allegations involving a child under the age of 14. Two days later, prosecutors formally charged him.
The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office filed two felony counts of lewd and lascivious acts on a child under 14, authorities confirmed.
“The alleged crimes occurred while Smith was working as a babysitter in the Los Angeles area,” police said in a statement.
Smith remains in custody at the Los Angeles County Jail. Officials have not disclosed the alleged victim’s age, gender, or identity, citing the sensitivity of the case.
Police release booking photo, seek more victims
On January 8, 2026, investigators publicly released Smith’s booking photo and issued a call for anyone who may have had contact with him to come forward.
Authorities believe the case may involve more victims than initially reported, particularly because of Smith’s work history with children.
“Detectives believe there are additional victims of unreported sexual assaults,” police said.
Investigators say Smith advertised childcare services through online marketplaces that connect families with caregivers, allowing him access to multiple households over time.
Childcare work spanned multiple states
Police revealed that Smith’s involvement with children went beyond babysitting. Detectives say he also taught snowboarding and operated what he described as a “snowboard club” for children.
According to authorities, Smith is believed to have worked with families and children in various locations across the United States, increasing concerns that victims may exist outside California.
This multi-state background is a key reason investigators are now urging parents, guardians, and former clients to report any suspicious or inappropriate behavior.
Prior child sex assault charge in Colorado
Before his December arrest in California, Smith had already been charged in another serious case involving a child.
Authorities confirmed that Smith was previously charged with sexual assault on a child while in a position of trust in Colorado Springs, Colorado. That case is still ongoing.
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The existence of the Colorado case has intensified concerns among law enforcement officials that Smith may have used positions of trust to gain access to children over an extended period.
“These types of cases are particularly concerning because the suspect is often trusted by families,” a law enforcement source said.
Limited details released to protect victims
Officials have been careful not to release identifying details about the alleged victims. Police say protecting victims’ privacy remains a top priority as the investigation continues.
Smith is described by authorities as:
- Black adult male
- 5 feet 11 inches tall
- Approximately 230 pounds
- Brown eyes
- Brown dreadlocked hair with blonde tips
Police stress that physical descriptions are being shared strictly to help identify potential contacts and witnesses.
How to report information
Anyone who believes they may have been a victim, or who has information related to Smith’s childcare or youth-related work, is urged to contact authorities immediately.
Tips can be reported directly to Detective Lowery at the Torrance Police Department by calling 310-618-5570. Law enforcement officials say all reports will be handled with sensitivity and confidentiality.
As the investigation expands, authorities continue to warn families to carefully vet caregivers and report any behavior that raises concern — even if it happened months or years ago.
What steps do you think parents should take when hiring caregivers through online platforms? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
