By Redaccion
[email protected]
District Attorney Erik Nasarenko announced today that Jesus Andrew Sapien (DOB 12/20/79), of Port Hueneme, was convicted by a jury of 13 felony counts of lewd acts upon a child.
The jury also found true all aggravating circumstances and special allegations, including the three victims were under the age of 14, they were vulnerable, that Sapien engaged in substantial sexual conduct, and that he took advantage of a position of trust.
In May 2020, the mother of a six-year-old victim reported the molestation to detectives with the Port Hueneme Police Department. The young victim had disclosed to her mother that Sapien had molested her several times over many months. Two additional children came forward disclosing that they too had been victims of repeated sexual abuse by Sapien. He gained access to the victims through a familial relationship.
Deputy District Attorney Benjamin Moreno, a member of the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office Sexual Assault Unit, prosecuted the case.
“I commend the victims for their extraordinary courage in standing up to their abuser and telling the truth,” Mr. Moreno said. “Their unwavering bravery has led to justice being served today. I also extend my sincere gratitude to the jury for their careful consideration of the emotional evidence. I hope that this verdict provides the victims with a sense of closure as they continue their journey towards healing.”
Sapien is scheduled to be sentenced on September 10, 2024, at 9:00 a.m. in courtroom 23 of the Ventura County Superior Court. He faces a maximum of 325 years to life in state prison. He remains in custody without bail.
Case: 2020013576
Defendant Information:
Jesus Andrew Sapien (DOB 12/20/79)
Port Hueneme
Charges convicted of:
(13 counts) PC 288(a) – Lewd act upon a child
Special allegations found true:
PC 667.61(e)(4) – Sex crimes aggravated circumstance
PC 667.61(j)(2) – Victim under age 14
PC 1203.066(a)(8) – Substantial sexual conduct
CRC 4.421(a)(11) – The defendant took advantage of a position of trust
CRC 4.421(a)(3) – Victim was vulnerable
