A former priest from Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in Downey, Jaime Arriaga Pedroza, aged 41, faces multiple felony charges related to the alleged sexual abuse of a minor. The accusations involve incidents reportedly occurring between February and March 2025.
The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s office has charged Pedroza with several counts, including lewd acts on a child aged 14 or 15 and assault with intent to commit such acts. If convicted, the defendant could face up to 14 years in prison and lifelong registration as a sex offender.
The Archdiocese of Los Angeles acted swiftly upon receiving a report on April 2, 2025, leading to the individual’s arrest the following day and permanent removal from ministry. The Archdiocese has reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy, ensuring that allegations of misconduct are thoroughly investigated and reported to law enforcement.
District Attorney Nathan Hochman praised the courage of the young survivor who came forward, highlighting the importance of giving a voice to those harmed by trusted figures in our communities. We echo this sentiment and encourage anyone with information or who may have been affected to contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Special Victims Bureau at 877-710-5273 or submit anonymous tips through the Los Angeles Regional Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or lacrimestoppers.org.
The news shared here reflects the ongoing fight for accountability for those who have betrayed the trust and safety of our children. At Easton & Easton, childhood sexual assault attorney Saul Wolf leverages his years of experience securing significant settlements to the tune of six, seven and eight figures, and litigating high-profile child sexual abuse cases to continue this vital work. He is dedicated to thoroughly investigating these institutions, such as Church Entities (including the Roman Catholic Church), Private Schools and Public School Districts (including LAUSD), Youth Servicing Organizations (including Boys & Girls Clubs and YMCAs) Youth Sports Organizations and National Governing Bodies (including USA Water Polo, and USA Cheer), and aggressively pursuing justice for survivors.
ES