The Manteca Police Department is currently searching for a man they believe may be in the Manteca area that is wanted for a number of sex crimes involving a child under the age of 14.

Karl Edward Halyday, 61, is known to frequent the Manteca and Vernalis areas and now has a warrant for his arrest for lewd and lascivious acts with a minor under the age of 14 and sending harmful material to a minor under the age of 14 with the intent to arouse – both of which are felonies.

Halyday is described as a while male adult, standing at approximately 5-foot, 10-inches tall, with brown or blonde hair and blue eyes and weighing about 170 pounds.

Police believe that he is aware that a warrant is out for his arrest and are encouraging the public not to approach him if he is seen and to instead contact the Manteca Police Department at 209.456.8401 or immediately call 911.

Anybody with any information on his whereabouts is encouraged to contact Manteca Police Detective Mark Rangel at 209.456.8209.

Manteca police did not release additional information about the case because of the age of the victim and the sensitivity of the matter.

To contact reporter Jason Campbell email jcampbell@mantecabulletin.com or call 209.249.3544.