A Menifee police officer has been arrested on suspicion of committing sexual assault whereas on responsibility, in keeping with the Riverside County Sheriff’s Division.
The Menifee Police Division acquired a criticism alleging sexual assault by one in all its officers, spurring a preliminary investigation that pointed to 32-year-old Officer Juan Pesina.
Pesina allegedly dedicated sexual assault throughout an on-duty investigation. There have been different on-duty assaults, in addition to alleged off-duty incidents, in 2023 and 2024, in keeping with investigators. He had been an officer with the Menifee Police Division since December 2022, in keeping with the company.
He faces costs together with rape, sodomy and compelled oral copulation, in keeping with officers.
Juan Pesina was arrested Tuesday in Murrieta.
(Riverside County Sheriff’s Division)
After its preliminary investigation of Pesina, Menifee police notified the sheriff’s particular victims unit, asking it for assist in conducting “an neutral and impartial investigation,” Police Chief Chris Karper mentioned in a video posted by the Police Division.
Authorities arrested the officer Tuesday at a courthouse in Murietta, the discharge mentioned. After being made conscious of the allegations, the Sheriff’s Division mentioned, officers used a search warrant to comb via his Menifee residence and his office and located additional proof supporting the costs.
“Whereas we’re deeply upset on this particular person’s actions, they don’t replicate the values, integrity or professionalism of the Menifee Police Division, its management or the officers who serve this neighborhood with honor on a regular basis,” Karper mentioned. “We perceive the influence that this information might have on public belief. Let me guarantee you, we’re dedicated to accountability, each externally and inside our personal ranks.”
The case continues to be underneath investigation, and authorities consider there might be extra victims.
Those that have any data are urged to contact investigator J. Andrade at (951) 955-1701 or dispatch at (951) 776-1099.
