West Valley police make arrests in 2 child sex crime cases

PHOENIX — Two West Valley men accused of sexually abusing preteen girls have been taken into custody, authorities announced Monday.

The first man accused of sexual misconduct allegedly molested his girlfriend’s 11-year-old daughter in February, according to the El Mirage Police Department.

Authorities said they received a report of these sex offenses in July. After a thorough investigation, they arrested the male suspect for molestation as well as continuous sexual abuse of a child.

Police recently arrested the second suspect after investigating a report that he may have been involved in the sexual assault of a 12-year-old girl who was living with him.

That man was later booked on charges of sexual assault, molestation of a child and sexual conduct.

Police said they didn’t release the suspects’ names out of respect for the privacy of their victims.

Police warn parents after men accused of sexually assaulting preteen girls arrested

El Mirage Police Chief Paul Marzocca emphasized that these cases highlight the critical need for vigilance, as predators will stop at nothing to exploit children.

“These cases highlight the vulnerability of child victims and the dangers posed by their predators, who will lure them by any means,” Marzocca said in the Monday announcement. “Our officers and detectives take all investigations seriously and will work diligently to remove predators from our community.”

Most child sexual abuse cases involve someone the child knows, not a stranger, according to data from the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN).

According to RAINN, 93% of victims were familiar with their abuser: 59% were acquaintances, and 34% were family members.

Additionally, the sexual abuse of children can occur online as well as in-person, according to authorities.

Earlier this year, Maricopa County Attorney’s Office launched a website to help educate parents on how to protect their children from online predators.

Related

Arizona man sentenced to over 150 years in prison for sexually abusing childrenArizona police departments arrest over 70 alleged child predators in crackdownBuckeye man accused of having sexual contact with 15-year-old high school studentCien Agaves Tacos & Tequila expands with new East Valley location“Today” show host Savannah Guthrie begs for “someone to come forward” in her mother’s disappearanceGreat Wolf Lodge looks to expand resort with additional tower