A former mayor of a small Butte County city is behind bars after police say he sexually abused a minor foreign exchange student who had been living in his home. Robert “Brian” Bassett, 58, was arrested Thursday and booked into the Butte County Jail. Gridley police said the student is now safe and receiving support from family and friends.
According to Gridley police, the investigation began after the department received information that a juvenile foreign exchange student assigned to Bassett’s home had been repeatedly sexually abused. Officers arrested Bassett on July 9 and booked him into the Butte County Jail. Because the case involves a minor, investigators are holding back many specifics, as reported by KION Central Coast.
Police listed the allegations as sexual penetration of a minor, oral copulation with a minor and statutory rape. In a statement, the department called the accusations “a profound betrayal.” Officials also said they are limiting additional details to protect the integrity of the ongoing criminal case, according to CBS Sacramento.
Bassett served as mayor of Biggs in 2023 and previously sat on the city council before resigning from the council in 2025. Gridley, where the investigation is based, is a Butte County city of about 7,000 residents located roughly an hour north of Sacramento and 27 miles south of Chico, according to KION Central Coast.
Charges and Legal Context
The offenses named by police are charged under California law as serious sex crimes that can carry prison terms and other penalties. For statutory language and potential sentencing ranges, see Penal Code sections 289 and 261.5.
Exchange Program Oversight
Federal Exchange Visitor Program rules require sponsors and local coordinators to vet host families, secure appropriate placements and stay in regular contact with students as a basic safeguard. Department of State materials outline sponsor responsibilities for screening and monitoring J-1 and secondary-school placements, according to U.S. Department of State guidance.
Gridley police have reiterated that they are withholding certain information because the case involves a minor and remains an active investigation. The arrest and the allegations against Bassett were first reported by CBS Sacramento, and investigators say the case is still under review.
If you or someone you know needs confidential support, the National Sexual Assault Hotline is available 24/7 at 800-656-HOPE (4673) or online at RAINN. Local victim-witness programs and county victim services can also offer assistance and referrals.
