Deputies arrest man who used casting calls to sexually abuse childrenAugust 5, 2026By JOSH FRIEDMANFollowing a nearly five-year investigation, Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s detectives arrested a 46-year-old man who used casting calls to sexually abuse and exploit at least nine children. During the initial investigation, detectives identified two more survivors, according to the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office. Eventually, detectives identified nine survivors, all of whom were minors at the time of the alleged abuse. Deputies booked Gledhill into the Santa Barbara County Northern Branch Jail, where he is being held with his bail set at $500,000. Survivors of abuse also have the option of contacting the Victim-Witness Assistance Program directly at (805) 568-2400 or toll free at (855) 840-3232.