A Beverly Hills piano teacher is facing multiple charges for alleged sexual abuse of a 13-year-old pupil, officials said. The Los Angeles County District Attorney, Nathan Hochman, disclosed that Hovanes John Jihanyan, 41, is accused of molesting the teenager during a period between August 1 and November 9, within which the student turned 14. According to a report by KTLA, Jihanyan was apprehended on December 12 and is awaiting arraignment on January 15.
"I am appalled by these horrific acts of sexual abuse against a vulnerable child," Hochman conveyed in a release. In a statement obtained by the District Attorney's news release, he emphasized the office's commitment to aggressively prosecute child abuse cases and secure justice for victims and their families. Jihanyan's charges include continuous sexual abuse of a child under 14 and lewd acts upon a child aged 14 or 15, among others.
Prosecutors argue that Jihanyan, as the victim's piano teacher, continuously abused the student during piano lessons, as detailed by the District Attorney's Office. If convicted, the defendant faces a potential sentence of up to 29 years in state prison and the requirement to register as a sex offender for life.
Recognizing the possibility of additional victims, the District Attorney's Office is urging anyone with further information to reach out. Detective Lizette Hardgrave and Sgt. David Haro at the Santa Monica Police Department, as well as the Watch Commander, are open to tips.
