A 26-year-old California therapist has been arrested and charged with sexually abusing a minor she allegedly groomed after he left a juvenile hall where she was employed, according to law enforcement officials.
The San Francisco-area woman, whose name is being withheld by authorities pending formal charges, worked at the juvenile detention facility as a licensed therapist before the alleged abuse began, investigators said.
Background
The boy had previously been housed at the juvenile facility where the accused therapist provided counseling services, according to court documents. After his release from the facility, she allegedly continued contact with him outside of any professional setting.
Investigators say the relationship between the therapist and her former client developed over several months before the alleged sexual abuse occurred. The case came to light when someone reported suspicious behavior to authorities.
The Investigation
The San Francisco Police Department began investigating after receiving reports about the inappropriate relationship. Detectives with the department's special victims unit worked with prosecutors to build a case against the therapist.
She was taken into custody and charged with multiple counts including sexual assault of a minor, grooming, and related offenses. Authorities allege she used her position of trust as a counselor to manipulate and abuse the teenage victim.
Key Takeaways
- The accused therapist is 26 years old and worked at the juvenile hall before allegedly targeting the boy after his release
- She has been charged with sexual assault of a minor, grooming, and additional related offenses
- The San Francisco Police Department's special victims unit conducted the investigation
- Prosecutors allege she exploited her position of trust as a licensed therapist to groom the teenager
- The case highlights concerns about oversight of therapeutic relationships with minors in detention settings
What's Next
The therapist is expected to be arraigned on the charges in coming weeks. Prosecutors have indicated they plan to pursue additional counts as their investigation continues.
The San Francisco District Attorney's office said it is working with child welfare advocates to review protocols at juvenile facilities in light of this case. Defense attorneys have not yet commented publicly on the charges.