RICHMOND — Police here have arrested a 53-year-old pastor on suspicion of molesting a teen girl who was part of his congregation, authorities said.
Victor Manuel Hernandez-Pineda, of the Iglesia Pentecostes Movimiento De Gloria, was arrested Friday on suspicion of child molestation. Richmond police, who led the investigation, are expected to meet with Contra Costa County prosecutors to file charges early next week.
He was arrested on suspicion of three counts of kidnapping and four counts of molesting a girl younger than 14. The alleged victim was part of the church, police say.
Hernandez-Pineda, an Oakland resident, remains in custody in lieu of $7 million bail, authorities said. It is unclear whether he’s retained an attorney, and he couldn’t be reached for comment.
Hernandez-Pineda is listed as the director of the Richmond church located on 3rd Street at Macdonald Avenue. Authorities say the alleged victim cooperated with the investigation and that they are looking into the possibility that more victims are out there.
The investigation started Nov. 8, police said.
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Source: www.mercurynews.com