Port Hueneme resident Jesus Andrew Sapien is facing a maximum sentence of 325 years to life in state prison after being convicted on multiple felony counts of lewd acts upon a child, the Ventura County District Attorney's Office announced. A jury found Sapien guilty of 13 felony counts, additionally affirming all special allegations, which include that his victims were under 14, vulnerable and that he had exploited a position of trust to carry out substantial sexual conduct.
The initial report of molestation surfaced in May 2020, when the mother of a six-year-old brought forth disturbing allegations to the Port Hueneme Police, detailing how her child had been repeatedly molested by Sapien, who had access to the children through familial ties. Following this courageous act by the first victim, two more children came forward, recounting similar experiences of repeated abuse at the hands of Sapien. Deputy District Attorney Benjamin Moreno prosecuted the case as part of the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office Sexual Assault Unit. "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," according to a statement obtained by the District Attorney's Office.
The gravity of the crimes and the jury's verdict signal a powerful precedent in addressing such grievous violations committed under the guise of trust and familial kinship. Sapien, born on December 20, 1979, remains in custody without the possibility of bail. His sentencing is slated for September 10, 2024, in the Ventura County Superior Court.
In echoing the sentiments of Mr. Moreno, the hope is that "this verdict provides the victims with a sense of closure as they continue their journey towards healing." For press inquiries, Communications Manager/PIO Joey Buttitta can be reached at (805) 767-3400 or via email at [email protected], the office communicated.
