MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif. — Franklin Enrique Sarceno Orla, a 38-year-old man from Mountain View, has been charged with dozens of sexual assault offenses after authorities say he preyed on men over several years, often while they were unconscious. After fleeing the country in 2024, Sarceno Orla was captured in Guatemala and returned to Santa Clara County earlier this month to face trial.
Prosecutors with the Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Office allege that Sarceno Orla targeted victims between 2018 and 2024, luring them with alcohol before they lost consciousness and woke up injured. Investigators believe he may have filmed some of the assaults.
Authorities began investigating Sarceno Orla in mid-2024, after one man reported waking up with injuries following a night of drinking. DNA evidence confirmed an assault, and additional victims soon came forward. Detectives say they have identified at least 19 confirmed victims, though the total number may exceed 60.
“This defendant is accused of committing horrific acts against men who were incapacitated and unable to defend themselves,” District Attorney Jeff Rosen said in a statement announcing the charges. “We believe there are more victims out there.”
Sarceno Orla was first arrested in August 2024 but released on $250,000 bail. Investigators say he continued to assault men after his release and eventually fled to Guatemala. Working with international law enforcement, the U.S. Marshals Service located and extradited him to California in October 2025.
He now faces 43 felony counts, including forcible rape, sodomy of an unconscious person, and administering intoxicating substances to commit assault. Some of the charges may carry enhanced penalties due to allegations that he is HIV positive.
Law enforcement officials have urged anyone who believes they may have been victimized by Sarceno Orla to contact investigators.
Community advocates say the case highlights a growing need for awareness around drug-facilitated sexual assaults, particularly among male and LGBTQ+ victims who often face barriers to reporting.
“This case shows that sexual violence doesn’t fit one narrative,” said one local advocate. “Men can be victims too, and they deserve to be heard and believed.”
Sarceno Orla remains in custody at the Santa Clara County Main Jail without bail. He is expected to appear in court later this week for arraignment. If convicted on all counts, he could face life in prison.
Authorities continue to investigate and identify additional potential victims as the case unfolds.
