Earlier this month, police officers were notified of a s*xual battery that had occurred several days prior, according to the Fountain Valley Police Department.
The investigation revealed a minor female had been assaulted by an adult male roommate. After being confronted by the minor’s parents, the male fled the residence.
Several days later, officers and detectives were notified that the suspect had returned to the residence.
A tactical plan was developed, and the suspect was safely taken into custody.
During an interview with detectives, the suspect made several incriminating statements. He was subsequently booked on charges related to the s*xual battery of a minor and child annoyance.
This case serves as an important reminder of the need for ongoing conversations with children about interactions with adults that may cause them harm or make them feel unsafe. If something feels or sounds off, our officers are only a phone call away.
Penalties faced by the suspect
Based on the charges filed by the Fountain Valley Police Department in January 2026, the adult male suspect faces significant criminal penalties under the California Penal Code. He was booked on charges of s/xual battery of a minor and child annoyance.
1. S*xual Battery (Penal Code § 243.4)
In California, sexual battery is a “wobbler” offense, meaning it can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the specific facts of the case (such as whether force or restraint was used).
- Felony Penalties: If convicted of felony sexual battery, the suspect faces 2, 3, or 4 years in state prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
- Misdemeanor Penalties: If charged as a misdemeanor, the maximum sentence is typically up to one year in county jail and a fine of up to $2,000 or $3,000.
2. Child Annoyance (Penal Code § 647.6)
This charge applies to conduct motivated by an “unnatural or abnormal s*xual interest” in a minor.
- Standard Offense: Typically a misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in county jail and a fine of up to $5,000.
- Felony Enhancements: If the suspect entered an inhabited dwelling without consent to commit the crime, or if he has prior convictions for similar offenses, the charge can be elevated to a felony. Felony penalties for child annoyance can range from 16 months to 6 years in state prison.
3. S*x Offender Registration (Penal Code § 290)
Regardless of whether the charges are prosecuted as felonies or misdemeanors, a conviction for these offenses in California mandates registration as a s*x offender.
- Tiered Registration: For a first-time conviction under these sections, the minimum registration period is typically 10 years (Tier 1).
- Public Notification: Information regarding the conviction is often made public on the Megan’s Law website.
Note: As of his arrest in early January 2026, the suspect remains subject to further investigation and legal proceedings where final sentencing will be determined by the court.