Los Angeles has been rattled by the recent arrest of Justin Akio Yasutake, a Pasadena teacher and youth soccer coach accused of possessing child pornography. According to information released by the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, Yasutake has been charged with the possession of over 600 illicit images, including those of children under the age of 12. The arrest and forthcoming criminal proceedings mark a stark fall for an individual once trusted by the community to mold and mentor young minds.
District Attorney Nathan Hochman made clear the position of the law, stating, "Child pornography will not be tolerated in LA County, and individuals who exploit children will be vigorously prosecuted, especially when they are educators who hold positions of trust in the community," as stated by the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office. This statement echoes a pervasive concern over those who breach the trust given to them by parents, peers, and most importantly, the children they are meant to safeguard and educate. The case, bearing the significant weight of potential additional victims, is in the hands of the office’s Cyber Crimes Division.
A tip-off about suspicious conduct on social media last month set the investigation into motion. An individual had reported receiving messages containing explicit material centered on underage girls. Further investigation led the Arcadia Police to Yasutake, culminating in a search warrant that uncovered the illicit content. "In these messages, an unknown subject was inquiring about juvenile girls and sending videos of themselves masturbating to images of juvenile girls," said the Arcadia Police Department, in a statement obtained by Hoodline.
Yasutake’s arraignment is set for December 23, with the possibility of a six-year state prison sentence if convicted on the charges, as per the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office. Furthermore, he would have to register as a sex offender for life, a designation that would follow him indefinitely. As the legal proceedings unfold, the prosecutors and investigators continue to seek any additional information or potential victims related to the case. They can be contacted through the Arcadia Police Department at 626-574-5188 or anonymously via (800) 222-8477.
