Suspect Arrested for Sexual Assault on a Juvenile 

February 20, 2025 – Riverside County Sheriff's Office officials report that in December 2024, deputies from the Thermal Sheriff’s Station began investigating allegations of sexual assault on a juvenile student. The victim reported to the school administration that a teacher inappropriately touched them. During the investigation, the suspect was identified as Mario Valenzuela, a 42-year-old resident of Coachella.

On Friday, February 14, 2025, at 11:35 a.m., investigators arrested Valenzuela in the 49000 block of Pluma Roja Place in Coachella. Valenzuela was booked at the John Benoit Detention Center on charges of lewd acts with a minor.

Anyone with information about this investigation is urged to contact Investigator Fernandez of the Thermal Sheriff’s Station by calling 760-863-8990. Call Valley Crimestoppers at (760) 341-7867 if you wish to remain anonymous.

Reporting Supervisor: Sergeant Oscar Gutierrez

File # Y243400005

Source: Riverside County Sheriff's Office