Related Federal Cases
- Nathan Baptista, Aggravated Sexual Abuse, California 2024 · Washington
- Dylan Wayne Cowdrey, Sexual Abuse of Minor, California 2017 · California
- Kelly Boylan, Sexual Abuse, California 2024 · Washington
- Orlando Miguel Valenzuela, Sexual Abuse of a Minor, Tucson AZ, 2023 · Alabama
- Robert Ruben Ornelas, Child Sex Abuse, California 2023 · Florida
Supervisor at Palo Alto VA Hospital Charged with Aggravated Sexual Abuse
A shocking case of abuse of power has come to light at the Palo Alto VA Hospital in California. Onofre Salas-Lozano, a supervisor at the hospital, has been charged with aggravated sexual abuse of a subordinate, according to a federal indictment.
The indictment alleges that Salas-Lozano, 40, of Palo Alto, used force and fear to cause the victim to engage in a sex act at the hospital on July 2, 2021. At the time of the incident, Salas-Lozano was the victim’s direct supervisor.
The charges against Salas-Lozano include aggravated sexual abuse, sexual abuse, and making false statements to a federal agent during an investigation. If convicted, he faces up to life imprisonment for the first two counts and up to eight years for making a false statement.
The investigation was conducted by the Office of the Inspector General (VA OIG) with assistance from VA Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Marissa Harris is prosecuting the case, with the assistance of Sahib Kaur.
Salas-Lozano was arraigned in San Jose federal court today before United States Magistrate Judge Nathanael M. Cousins. The government moved for detention and Salas-Lozano’s detention hearing is scheduled for May 3, 2023, at 1:00 p.m. before United States Magistrate Judge Susan van Keulen.
The case serves as a grim reminder of the importance of holding those in positions of power accountable for their actions. It also highlights the need for a safe and respectful work environment, particularly in institutions that provide critical services to vulnerable populations.
We will continue to provide updates on this case as more information becomes available.
Key Facts
- State: California
- Category: Sex Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
ðŸâ€Â’ Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS
Sex CrimesSex CrimesSex CrimesSex Crimes