In a recent announcement that surfaces concern for student safety, a 23-year-old paraprofessional employed at La Loma Junior High School in Modesto, California, has been taken into custody. Identified as Lawrence Harris, the suspect now faces multiple charges, including sending harmful material with the intent to seduce minors and accusations of child molestation. The Modesto Police Department detailed the arrest through a social media post yesterday.
Authorities have charged Harris with one count of Penal Code 288.2(a) – a felony for the seductive distribution of harmful matter to a minor, and two counts under Penal Code 647.6(a)(1) – one a felony and the other a misdemeanor for annoying or molesting a child under 18. These charges emerged after three victims, all reportedly minors, stepped forward. The apprehension took place at the school premises, and, Harris was subsequently booked into Stanislaus County Jail.
The ongoing investigation remains open, and new information could potentially impact the case. Detective Salinas of the Modesto Police Department is urging anyone with knowledge of the matter to come forward by contacting 209-342-6131. Details of the case continue to emerge, and all parties with relevant information are encouraged to assist the investigation.
