by RIVERSIDE, CA — A Southern California pastor has been sentenced to 45 years to life in prison for sexually assaulting three young girls he met through his church. The shocking crimes, spanning several years, have drawn attention to the dangers of predatory behavior in religious communities.
Carlos Ramirez Valdez, 61, of Riverside, was arrested in 2021 and convicted in August 2025. Prosecutors say the assaults occurred between 2012 and 2019, during which Valdez held leadership positions in multiple churches.
Abuse Occurred Over Several Years
During the period of abuse, Valdez was a leader at Iglesia De Dios Ebenezer Church in Santa Ana from 2014 to 2017. At the time of his arrest in 2021, he was serving as a pastor at International Mission Church USA, also in Santa Ana.
Authorities report that one of the victims was first abused at the age of 4. Over seven years, Valdez repeatedly molested her, luring her either into the church basement or a van parked in the church’s parking lot. The abuse only came to light when the girl reported the incidents to a school counselor.
Following the report, two more victims were identified in January 2020.
Details of the Victims’ Accounts
The first girl told Garden Grove police that Valdez molested her between 2014 and 2015 after giving her rides home from church. She was only 9 years old at the time.
The second girl spoke to Riverside police, stating that in 2017, Valdez repeatedly molested her in a backyard shed over an eight-month period. She was 7 and 8 years old during the assaults. These accounts reveal the disturbing lengths to which the pastor exploited his position of trust to commit heinous acts.
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Conviction and Sentencing
In August 2025, Valdez was convicted of:
- 11 felony counts of lewd or lascivious acts with a minor under the age of 14
- Three felony counts of oral copulation or sexual penetration of a child 10 or younger
On October 24, 2025, the Orange County District Attorney’s office announced that Valdez would serve 45 years to life in prison for his crimes.
“This case is a tragic reminder that churches should be safe sanctuaries, not hunting grounds for child molesters,” said Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer. “These young girls were subjected to unimaginable abuse by someone in a position of trust. The sexual exploitation of children will never be acceptable, and predators will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
Community Impact and Response
The case has left the community reeling. Religious leaders and families have expressed concern over how positions of authority can be misused and emphasized the importance of vigilance in protecting children. Many parents are now more attentive to the people their children interact with in churches and other community organizations.
Local advocacy groups highlight the need for stronger reporting mechanisms and training for staff in religious institutions to recognize and prevent abuse. The conviction of Valdez, while bringing justice to his victims, also serves as a cautionary tale for communities nationwide.
Moving Forward
The victims and their families are now beginning the long process of healing after years of trauma. Experts stress the importance of mental health support, counseling, and ongoing protective measures for the children affected by such abuse.
Communities are encouraged to stay vigilant, educate children about boundaries, and foster safe environments in all institutions where young people spend time.
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