A California police officer has been arrested and charged with felony possession of child sexual abuse material, local authorities announced on Tuesday.
Details of the Charge
Brian Jimenez-Gomez, a 25-year-old resident of Salinas and an officer with the Salinas Police Department, faces one felony count of possession of child sexual abuse material, according to the Monterey County District Attorney's Office.
Prosecutors have stated that the charge does not involve allegations of physical contact with a minor or the creation of illicit material. Additionally, there is no known ongoing threat to the public.
Police Department Response
In a social media statement, Salinas Police Chief Carlos Acosta revealed that the department received information late last year concerning possible criminal conduct involving Jimenez-Gomez. He said that “in the interest of transparency and accountability,” the department immediately referred the investigation to the San Jose Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and placed the officer on administrative leave.
“We understand the seriousness of this matter and the impact it may have on public trust,” Acosta said. “When misconduct is alleged, it will be thoroughly investigated and addressed appropriately. The Salinas Police Department remains committed to holding all employees to the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and accountability.”
Investigation and Legal Consequences
The case was investigated by the San Jose Police Department, the District Attorney's Office confirmed. Officials noted that the charge did not allege physical contact with a minor, nor did it involve allegations that Jimenez-Gomez created the material.
According to a Monterey County news release, District Attorney Jeannine M. Pacioni stated that investigators are currently unaware of any local victims and there is no indication of an ongoing threat to the public.
If convicted, Jimenez-Gomez faces a sentence of probation, 16 months in state prison, or a maximum sentence of two years in state prison, according to the District Attorney's Office. A conviction would also require Jimenez-Gomez to register as a sex offender for life.
It is not yet clear if Jimenez-Gomez has obtained legal representation.
