Pictured above: Christopher Raymond Olague. Source: Huntington Beach Police Department.

Christopher Raymond Olague was arrested last week on suspicion of child molestation. Olague is a pastor at Refuge Southland Church and also a soccer coach for AYSO Region 55, which is located in Huntington Beach. Allegedly, Olague picked up an 8-year-old girl from her family’s home and was supposed to take her on a play date with his kids. Instead, Olague allegedly drove the girl to a park in Huntington Beach and molested her inside of his car. He then gave the girl $40 to keep quiet and not tell her parents what happened. The girl told her parents and Olague was arrested on suspicion of committing a lewd act on a child less than 14 years of age and attempting to dissuade a witness.

In order to be convicted of committing a lewd act on a child under 14, the state needs to prove that you wilfully touched a child’s body with the intent of arousing you or the child.  If convicted of child molestation, you can be subject to fines, jail/prison time, counseling and are required to register to be put on the sex offender registry.  Registering on the sex offender registry will affect a person’s reputation, career and where they can live.  Possible defenses to child molestation include: false accusations and lack of intent. If you are charged with child molestation or any other sex crime, contact an experienced criminal defense attorney right away to assist you in fighting your charges.