Stephen Vincent Chavez, 41, of Moorpark, pleaded guilty on May 18, 2026, to one felony count of incest and one misdemeanor count of providing alcohol to a minor, according to the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office. He also admitted sentencing enhancements alleging that he took advantage of a position of trust and that the victim was particularly vulnerable.
The case stems from conduct in July 2025, when his 18‑year‑old biological daughter, Makayla, was staying with him at his Moorpark residence. After a day of drinking at a family gathering, Chavez purchased additional alcohol for himself and Makayla to drink at home. Prosecutors said Chavez then engaged in sexual intercourse with her. Court and arrest records list the violation date as July 21, 2025.
Makayla died by suicide in December 2025. Her death is not charged in the case but is noted in public statements about the prosecution. Prosecutors conducted an extensive review of whether to file a rape charge but ultimately did not pursue that charge.
Chavez faces a maximum sentence of three years in state prison and a requirement to register as a sex offender for 20 years. He was remanded into custody following his guilty plea and is scheduled to be sentenced on June 23, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. in Courtroom 12 of the Ventura County Superior Court.
The case was investigated by the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted by the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office.