A corporal with the
Valverde, who joined the department in 2015 and eventually rose to the rank of corporal, now faces three criminal charges. According to the sheriff’s office, these include two counts of lewd and lascivious molestation and one count of unlawful sexual activity with a minor. Sheriff Nocco described the details of the case as deeply disturbing, while commending the victim for their courage in reporting the incidents.
Investigation into Deputy’s Conduct
During a press briefing, Sheriff Nocco stated that the alleged abuse occurred over a significant period. While the department has not disclosed a specific timeline, the sheriff noted that the suspect and the victim shared a custodial relationship and were well-acquainted with one another. Nocco emphasized that the nature of the allegations has left the department in a state of shock, describing the actions as an embarrassment to the law enforcement profession.
The sheriff also addressed Valverde’s history within the agency, acknowledging that the deputy’s professional record was not without prior issues. Valverde had previously been the subject of an internal investigation regarding allegations of domestic abuse. Although that inquiry did not result in his termination at the time, Nocco noted that the current child abuse charges represent a significant escalation in the nature of the accusations against him.
Authorities are now operating under the assumption that there may be other victims who have not yet come forward. Sheriff Nocco issued a public appeal, urging anyone with relevant information to contact the department. The investigation remains ongoing, and the sheriff’s office has expressed a commitment to uncovering the full extent of the deputy’s conduct.
