Police arrested Armando Segoviano, 46, on September 5 following investigations into a reported child molestation case. According to a police statement, the victim is a developmentally disabled 15-year-old girl with the mentality abilities of a 6-year-old and is an acquaintance of the suspect.
Segoviano regularly sold tamales outside the church frequented by the victim and her family. Following a church service on the evening of August 23, Segoviano reportedly attempted to steer the girl toward a darkened lot. Sergeant Riley Harwood said in a press release that “Segoviano met the victim outside of her residence and embraced her, kissing her and fondling one of her intimate parts over her clothing.” The victim’s parents witnessed the event, stopping Segoviano and calling the police.
Segoviano admitted to the crime and has been charged with the felony of committing a lewd act upon a child by a person 10 or more years older. The suspect was booked into the Santa Barbara County Jail at a bail amount of $100,000.