Merced County teacher arrested in connection with child sex abuse material
A teacher at Delhi High School has been arrested for possession and distribution of child sexual abuse material, the Merced County Sheriff’s Office said.
Patrick Ryan Silva, 38, of Hilmar was taken into custody Wednesday at his residence, according to a Sheriff’s Office Facebook post. He faces three felony charges, according to jail records.
The Merced County Sheriff’s Office worked with the Fresno Internet Crimes Against Children Taskforce to investigate Silva, the post said.
The suspect was booked into the Merced County Jail for alleged felony possession of 600 images of child sexual abuse.
Investigators have not located any links that the material possessed by Silva involves any local children, the post said.
The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information regarding this incident should call Detective Darren Stevens at 209-385-7472. Callers may remain confidential.
According to the Delhi High School website, Silva teaches ag welding.
This story was originally published March 18, 2026 at 1:06 PM with the headline "Merced County teacher arrested in connection with child sex abuse material."
