Los Angeles has been shaken by charges against a photographer accused of sexually assaulting three teenage models under the guise of advancing their careers. William Isaac Thomas Jr., 49, faces multiple charges after allegedly using his positioning as a self-represented modeling industry expert to exploit the victims between 2017 and 2023,  as reported by the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office.

Thomas is charged with three counts of oral copulation, two counts of sodomy by use of force, and one count of attempted sodomy of an unconscious or asleep victim. The assaults started with an 18-year-old in 2017, then continued with a second victim, starting when they were 19 or 20, in 2020, and a third victim, aged 19, beginning in 2022. Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón stated, "The courage these young survivors have shown in coming forward after enduring this unimaginable trauma and suffering cannot be overstated, and we stand with them in their pursuit of justice and healing," according to KTLA.

The allegations detail a disturbing pattern of targeting vulnerable individuals, with planning, sophistication, and professionalism that has particularly unsettled the community. Each of the victims was represented by Thomas in their modeling pursuits, a professional relationship he is accused of grossly violating. "The alleged actions of Mr. William Thomas Jr. are reprehensible," District Attorney Gascón remarked in a statement obtained by FOX LA, "Exploiting a position of authority to prey on vulnerable teenagers is an egregious abuse of power that our society cannot and will not tolerate."

Currently held on $1,525,000 bail, Thomas faces a maximum sentence of life in state prison if convicted as charged. His arraignment is scheduled for July 22. This case is a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities that exist for young individuals seeking opportunities within industries that can, at times be opaque, and predatory.