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Call Us (866) GO-SEE-SAM
Sep 13, 2024
Police have confirmed that Fullerton pastor Juan Barrios has been arrested for child sexual abuse. The arrest of Juan Barrios, 51, who had served as pastor at Iglesia de Dios Israelita in Fullerton, has brought to light a disturbing case of alleged long-term sexual abuse of minors that spans several years. Accordingly, local community members are raising concerns about child safety in religious institutions.
The Riverside Police Department’s investigation into this case began in May 2024 when a man came forward with allegations of past sexual abuse. He reported that his pastor, Juan Barrios, had sexually assaulted him for years, starting when he was just nine years old.
Shortly after the first victim’s report, his younger brother also stepped forward with similar claims of sexual abuse against Barrios. The brothers allege that his abuse occurred between 2009 and 2015, a period during which their family was living with the pastor at his Riverside home.
These similar allegations paint a damning picture of prolonged abuse, with an alleged predator taking advantage of the victims’ vulnerable position and the trust placed in him as a religious leader.
The Riverside Police Department acted swiftly once the allegations came to light. Their investigation, which began with the initial report in May 2024, led to the arrest of Juan Barrios on September 8. Barrios was booked on $500,000 bail.
As of today, Barrios has been released on bond, but the investigation is ongoing. Police are actively seeking more information and potential victims given the pastor’s position of authority and the nature of the accusations.
The case against Juan Barrios is particularly concerning due to his role as pastor at Iglesia de Dios Israelita in Fullerton. His position of trust and authority within the church community raises fears that there may be additional victims who have not yet come forward.
The Riverside Police Department has made a public appeal for any other potential victims or individuals with information about the Juan Barrios sexual abuse case to come forward. Police have provided multiple channels for submitting tips:
Cases like this underscore the importance of speaking out against sexual abuse, especially within religious institutions where power dynamics can complicate reporting. If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual abuse, it’s crucial to know that there are resources available and steps you can take:
When allegations of sexual abuse surface within religious institutions, the adverse impact can extend throughout the community. Trust is broken, faith is tested, and the very foundations of communal worship can be shaken.
However, it’s important to remember that communities can also be a source of strength and healing for survivors. By promoting open dialogue, implementing robust safeguarding measures, and placing priority on believing and supporting victims, religious institutions can work towards rebuilding trust and ensuring a safe environment for all members.
Awareness is key in preventing and addressing child sexual abuse. Community members can play a vital role by being attentive to potential signs of abuse, which may include:
If you suspect sexual abuse, it’s important to report your concerns to the appropriate authorities immediately. Remember, your vigilance could be the key to preventing further harm and helping survivors find the support they need.
As the Pastor Juan Barrios Sexual Abuse case unfolds, it serves as an important reminder of the need for constant vigilance and reporting systems to protect the vulnerable within our communities. The courage of those who have come forward cannot be overstated, and their actions may well prevent future abuse from occurring.
Contact D Law Group's pastor sexual abuse lawyers today at 866-GO-SEE-SAM for a free and confidential consultation. Our dedicated, caring, and proven team of Fullerton pastor sexual abuse lawyers is standing by 24/7 to discuss your child's case and help you and your family take the first step towards securing the justice and maximum financial compensation you deserve.
As a nationally-recognized and top-rated pastor sexual abuse firm, D Law Group is dedicated to fighting tirelessly on behalf of your family. With a 98% success record and over $200 million in settlements and verdicts won for our clients, we offer you an unparalleled level of past experience that is critical in every step of the legal process.
Our founder and president, Sam Dordulian, is an aggressive and strategic former sex crimes prosecutor who has secured more than 100 jury trial victories throughout his decorated 26-year career.
Contact California's best Fullerton pastor sexual abuse lawyers today for a free, confidential, and no-obligation consultation by calling 866-GO-SEE-SAM.
Religious institutions can implement background checks for all staff and volunteers, establish clear policies on child protection, provide training on recognizing and reporting abuse, and create an environment where concerns can be safely voiced and addressed.
Long-term effects of childhood sexual abuse can include depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance abuse issues, difficulty in forming healthy relationships, and various physical health problems. Professional help and support are often necessary for healing.
Communities can support survivors by believing them, providing access to mental health resources, creating support groups, and fostering an environment free from stigma and blame. Education about sexual abuse and its impacts can also help create a more supportive community atmosphere.
Accused religious leaders can face criminal charges such as sexual assault, child molestation, or statutory rape. Civil lawsuits can also be filed against the individual and potentially the religious institution if negligence is proven in their handling of abuse allegations. To begin the process of pursuing justice for your child's pastor sexual abuse case, contact D Law Group's experienced sex crimes attorneys at 866-GO-SEE-SAM.
Our Sexual Assault Justice Experts are here to help survivors secure justice. Contact our top-rated attorneys online or by phone for a free consultation today.
Sam Dordulian is an award-winning sexual abuse lawyer with over 25 years' experience helping survivors secure justice. As a former sex crimes prosecutor and Deputy District Attorney for L.A. County, he secured life sentences against countless sexual predators. Mr. Dordulian currently serves on the National Leadership Council for RAINN.
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