URGENT UPDATE: A 35-year-old man has been arrested following the reported sexual assault of a female teenager in the bed of the Santa Clara River in Canyon Country. The incident unfolded on Monday morning, with authorities confirming the arrest just hours later.
The Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station stated that deputies responded to a call for service at the intersection of Soledad Canyon Road and Camp Plenty Road. Officials quickly located both the suspect, identified as George Valle, and the victim. Valle was taken into custody without incident, according to Sgt. Joseph Mesa, who leads the Special Victims Unit of the L.A. County Sheriff’s Department.
The Special Victims Bureau is currently investigating the case, which is described as being in its early stages. Sgt. Mesa emphasized that detectives do not believe there is any ongoing danger to the community. However, details surrounding the relationship between the suspect and the victim remain unclear.
Valle is facing charges under section 261(a)1 of the California Penal Code, which pertains to sexual assault against individuals incapable of giving legal consent due to mental or physical disabilities. This charge highlights the serious nature of the allegations.
Valle is currently being held on bail set at $265,000 following previous charges of petty theft on October 31. He remains in custody as of now, with a court appearance scheduled for Wednesday at the San Fernando Courthouse.
Residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. The investigation is ongoing, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available. This incident serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of community safety and awareness.
