Bail for Melinda Smith, also known as adult film actress Mercedes Carrera, has been reduced to $2,000,000.00, with a preliminary hearing scheduled for July 17, 2019.

Arrest and Initial Charges

Melinda Smith, 35, known to fans as Mercedes Carrera, and adult film producer and director Jason Whitney, 43, also known as Daemon Sins, were arrested in Rancho Cucamonga. The arrests followed an investigation initiated on January 31, when the Rancho Cucamonga Police Department was notified of alleged sexual acts against a minor female victim. Smith and Whitney were accused of "inappropriate touching, oral copulation and digital penetration" over a four-month period.

Authorities served a search warrant at Smith and Whitney's home on a Friday, where investigators reported finding "a large amount of evidence corroborating the victim's statement." Additionally, two loaded handguns and methamphetamine were discovered. Detectives also found that the bedroom in the residence was "set" for recording pornographic videos and web shows.

On Wednesday, following their arrest, Smith and Whitney each pleaded not guilty to eight counts of sexually abusing a child under the age of 10. They were initially denied bail and remained in custody. The San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department also announced charges for possession of a controlled substance while armed with a handgun against both defendants.

Court Proceedings and Bail Reduction

A preliminary hearing was held on August 8 at Rancho Cucamonga Superior Court, where detectives testified regarding the evidence in the case. At the conclusion of this hearing, the judge determined there was sufficient evidence to proceed to trial against both Smith and Whitney. Both individuals will face 16 counts of sexual abuse of a child under age 10.

Smith is currently an inmate, #1902340095, at the Central Detention Center in San Bernardino, California. She hosts a podcast titled "Behind The Walls With Mercedes Carrera" from the West Valley Detention Center in San Bernardino County. On this podcast, she discusses her case, including recent court appearances and sexual abuse allegations, and claims corruption within the San Bernardino criminal justice system.

The bail for Melinda Smith has been reduced to $2,000,000.00. A preliminary hearing is set for July 17, 2019.

Additional Information and Public Appeals

Police have indicated that they have reason to believe Smith and Whitney may have sexually assaulted additional victims. Authorities are asking anyone with information about the matter to contact Rancho Cucamonga police at (909) 477-2800. Callers who wish to remain anonymous can use the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463).

Beyond her adult film career, Smith, as Mercedes Carrera, is also associated with the Gamergate movement. This movement, which began in 2014, involved the harassment of women game developers and video game analysts, prompted by allegations made by an ex-boyfriend of game developer Zoe Quinn.

Smith has also released a free e-book titled "Ten Reasons To Say No To Porn" and discusses her reasons against the porn industry on her podcast, where she states she repents her past.

Key Facts

  • Melinda Smith, known as Mercedes Carrera, and Jason Whitney were arrested for alleged sexual abuse of a child.
  • Bail for Melinda Smith has been reduced to $2,000,000.00.
  • A preliminary hearing is scheduled for July 17, 2019.
  • Both defendants face 16 counts of sexual abuse of a child under age 10.
  • Evidence found at their home included two loaded handguns, methamphetamine, and a bedroom set up for recording pornographic videos.
  • Authorities believe there may be additional victims.