CITRUS HEIGHTS (CA)
Abuse Guardian Legal News [Chadds Ford PA]
January 17, 2025
A church volunteer in the Sacramento area has been arrested on suspicion of sexually assaulting a minor. Edwin Valdez, 28, served at Holy Family Catholic Church in Citrus Heights prior to his arrest on Tuesday, January 14, 2025. Diocesan officials confirmed his involvement with the parish amid these serious allegations.
Sacramento Church Volunteer Arrested for Alleged Sexual Assault of Minor
Valdez is currently being held at Sacramento County Main Jail on $500,000 bail, facing multiple felony charges related to the alleged assaults. The victim has accused him of repeatedly assaulting her during her childhood. His arraignment is scheduled for Thursday in Sacramento Superior Court.
Ongoing Investigation and Concerns for Other Victims
The Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office has labeled this case as an “active and ongoing criminal investigation.” Detectives are concerned that there may be additional unreported victims, given Valdez’s access to minors through his church role and various positions outside of it. Authorities are urging anyone with information or who may have been affected to come forward and contact the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office Sexual and Elder Abuse Bureau.
Legal Guidance for Families: Attorney Discusses Rights After Child Sexual Abuse by Church Volunteers
In this important discussion, attorney Jason Amala provides valuable legal guidance for families whose children have been sexually abused by church volunteers. With the rising number of reported cases, understanding the legal options available is vital for affected families. Amala explains the steps they can take to hold perpetrators accountable and emphasizes the importance of seeking professional legal support to navigate these challenging circumstances.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: Thank you for joining me today, Jason. With the troubling rise in cases of sexual abuse by church volunteers, many families are left feeling helpless. Can you explain what legal rights are available to victims in these situations?
Jason Amala, Esq.: Absolutely, Laurence. Victims of sexual abuse by church volunteers have the right to seek justice through civil lawsuits. This means they can hold not only the individual perpetrator accountable but also the church or organization that allowed the abuse to occur. It’s essential for families to understand that they can take action against negligent parties.
Banville: What does it mean for a church or organization to be considered negligent in these cases?
Amala: Negligence occurs when a church fails to protect its members, especially vulnerable individuals like children. This could include inadequate background checks for volunteers, failing to respond appropriately to allegations of misconduct, or not implementing proper training on safeguarding policies. If a victim can demonstrate that the church did not take reasonable steps to prevent abuse, they may have a strong case.
Banville: How can victims and their families gather evidence to support their claims?
Amala: Evidence can come from various sources, including witness testimonies, any previous complaints made about the volunteer, and documentation of the church’s policies regarding volunteer conduct. It’s important for families to document everything and seek legal counsel early on to ensure they have the best chance of building a strong case.
Banville: What advice do you have for families who may feel intimidated by the legal process?
Amala: I encourage them to reach out for support. The legal process can be daunting, but having an experienced attorney can make a significant difference. We provide compassionate guidance every step of the way, helping families navigate their options and empowering them to reclaim their voices.
Banville: Thank you, Jason, for sharing your knowledge on this critical issue. It’s vital for families to know that they have options and that they can seek accountability for the harm done to their loved ones.
Take Action: Free Consultations for Families of Abuse Victims
If your child has been a victim of sexual abuse by a church employee, it’s crucial to know that you are not alone. We encourage families to reach out for a free consultation to explore legal options and understand their rights. Our compassionate team is dedicated to providing support and guidance during this difficult time, ensuring that those responsible are held accountable. Don’t hesitate to contact us—your family deserves justice and the opportunity to heal.
Source:
https://www.sacbee.com/news/local/article298578563.html