An Orange County sheriff’s deputy is out on bail after being arrested this week in reference to the reported sexual assault of an incarcerated lady.
The 29-year-old deputy, Leobardo Martinez Garcia, was arrested Wednesday, two weeks after the sufferer made a report, in line with authorities.
In March 2025, the sufferer was in custody and being handled at a neighborhood hospital when Martinez Garcia assaulted her, authorities allege. Eight months later, on Oct. 14, the sufferer, who’s at present incarcerated at an Orange County jail, reported the assault to jail workers, who then shared the declare with investigators, sheriff’s deputies mentioned.
Orange County investigators “instantly” started the investigation, in line with the Orange County Sheriff’s Division, and performed interviews and analyzed “digital proof,” which may embrace cellphone and e-mail data, in addition to search warrants.
The data uncovered was enough sufficient to warrant the arrest of Martinez Garcia on suspicion of felony sexual battery and assault below the colour of authority, and he was detained within the Santa Ana Jail.
He was launched Thursday on bond and positioned on paid go away. Officers confirmed that Martinez Garcia continues to be employed by the sheriff’s workplace because the investigation into his fees continues.
In mild of Martinez Garcia’s fees, Orange County Sheriff Don Barnes referred to as the deputy’s alleged conduct “a violation of the oath to serve and defend our neighborhood, notably these entrusted to our care within the Orange County Jail.”
“I couldn’t be extra disillusioned within the actions of Mr. Martinez Garcia,” Barnes mentioned.
After the investigation is accomplished, officers mentioned the case will both be assigned to the Orange County district legal professional or to the US district legal professional, relying on the fees thought-about and proof collected. His arraignment date will then be introduced. If Martinez Garcia is charged with assault below the colour of authority, a federal crime, his case will likely be heard in U.S. federal courtroom.
