A behavioral therapist from Southern California has been arrested due to allegations of sexual misconduct with a minor, according to several local news outlets. Matthew Martinez, 25, of Covina, was apprehended on February 5 by the Covina Police Department and is currently being held without bail as he awaits arraignment. KTLA reports that Martinez was connected to Foothill Family, an organization offering a range of services including mental health and child abuse services, until January 2025.
Following his arrest, detectives have not disclosed specific details about the incidents or the identities of the alleged victim. However, they do believe that there may be additional victims who have not stepped forward. In a statement obtained by CBS News Los Angeles, potential victims or those with information regarding the case are encouraged to reach out to Detective C. Hagle.
According to the Covina Police Department's Facebook post, Martinez was employed between 2023 and 2025 by Foothill Family, a provider of mental health services with several clinics in areas such as Covina, Duarte, and Pasadena. Upon his arrest, Martinez's photo was released to the public, with law enforcement urging any additional victims to come forward in an effort to bolster their investigation.
As the case unfolds, the Covina Police Department has made it clear that their investigation is ongoing and are determined to uncover the full extent of Martinez's alleged actions. Detective C. Hagle can be contacted at (626) 384-5621 or via email at [email protected] for those who might possess pertinent to the investigation or believe they may have been affected by similar transgressions.
