DOWNEY, CA
A Downey priest is charged with sexually abusing a minor earlier this year, according to officials.
“This case alleges unconscionable conduct by a trusted religious leader,” Los Angeles District Attorney Nathan Hochman said. “I commend the bravery of the young victim and urge anyone with information to contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. My office will aggressively prosecute child sexual abusers.”
Jaime Arriaga Pedroza, 41, was charged with one felony count of assault with intent to commit lewd acts upon a child and five felony counts of committing lewd acts on a 14- or 15-year-old victim between February 8 and March 21, 2025. At the time, Pedroza was serving as a priest at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in Downey.
Pedroza pleaded not guilty at his April 7 arraignment. He remains jailed without bail, with a preliminary hearing set for June 5.
If convicted, Pedroza faces up to 14 years in state prison and lifetime sex offender registration.
Deputy District Attorney Catherine Mariano is prosecuting the case, which is being investigated by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.