SAN JOSE, Calif. (KRON) — Another accuser has come forward against embattled San Jose Councilmember Omar Torres. According to the San Jose Police Department, the witness came forward on Monday, claiming to have been sexually abused by Torres as a minor.
This is an accusation made separately from the ongoing investigation into allegations that Torres had abused a 17-year-old. Torres was arrested on Tuesday and submitted his resignation to the San Jose City Council.
The San Jose Police Department said that based on the alleged victim’s testimony and new physical evidence, investigators were able to obtain a warrant for Torres’ arrest on Tuesday.
Police detailed the arrest at a press conference Wednesday afternoon.
The survivor, according to police, is known to Torres. The alleged assault occurred when both were minors but continued after Torres became an adult and the accuser was still a minor. An investigation led to evidence corroborating the survivor’s allegations.
Torres is being accused of lewd acts with a child, oral copulation of a minor, and sodomy of a child. Police also say the original investigation into Torres’ conduct is still ongoing.
Torres has so far maintained his innocence and claimed that he is the victim of an extortion attempt. Following his arrest on Tuesday, Torres submitted his resignation from the city council.
Mayor Matt Mahan said the city will move as swiftly as possible to replace him.
The charter provides two options, which can be combined. These options include appointing a temporary replacement to complete his term and holding special election with the option of doing an appointment before a special election.
This issue could go before voters early next year.
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