Forest Service Firefighter Arrested on Felony Charges, Allegedly Groped 12-Year-Old Girl
NEWPORT BEACH, CALIFORNIA – In a shocking turn of events, a firefighter affiliated with the esteemed U.S. Forest Service was apprehended on Wednesday on charges of allegedly groping a 12-year-old girl late last month in Newport Beach. According to KTLA, officials revealed this disheartening information on Thursday.
The suspect, identified as 38-year-old Jacob Daniel Carothers from San Jacinto, now faces severe felony charges. The Orange County District Attorney’s Office has formally charged Carothers with one count of possessing child pornography, as well as two counts of engaging in lewd and lascivious acts with a minor under the age of 14, as stated in their official statement.
The incident came to light after a concerned woman filed a police report on May 29 with the Newport Beach Police Department. She divulged that her 12-year-old daughter had fallen victim to inappropriate advances by an unknown man. The authorities later identified this man as Carothers, who was riding a bicycle when the alleged incidents occurred. The young girl, accompanied by her two friends, was enjoying the summer day near the Balboa Peninsula beach, dressed in swimwear.
After committing the act, Carothers swiftly fled the scene on his bicycle. However, law enforcement officers managed to locate him in a nearby alley. During the subsequent investigation, authorities made a startling discovery – Carothers had a significant collection of pornographic videos and images featuring underage children.
On Wednesday, diligent detectives from the Newport Beach Police arrested the wanted suspect, Jacob Daniel Carothers, on an active warrant. For the past 16 years, Carothers has been dutifully employed as a federal firefighter.
Currently, Carothers remains in custody with bail set at $100,000. His arraignment is scheduled for Monday. If found guilty on all counts, Carothers could face a maximum sentence of 10 years and 8 months of imprisonment.
In light of these disturbing events, law enforcement agencies are urging any potential additional victims to come forward. The public is also encouraged to provide any relevant information that may aid in the investigation.
