A Fresno County sheriff’s deputy was arrested this week on felony sexual assault and assault charges stemming from an alleged on-duty incident in Fresno, the Fresno Police Department said.

Deputy Sheriff Alejandro Apodaca, 31, was arrested Wednesday on two counts each of felony sexual battery and felony assault by a public officer.

Authorities said the investigation began after a call reporting that a victim had been sexually assaulted by a deputy sheriff on Sunday while Apodaca was in uniform and on-duty within the city of Fresno.

After patrol officers responded, the Fresno Police Department’s Sexual Assault Unit took over the investigation.

The Fresno County Sheriff’s Office assisted investigators after learning of the allegation, providing information needed to identify Apodaca and support the investigation, police said.

Detectives later contacted Apodaca and took him into custody. Investigators also served a search warrant at his residence and collected DNA evidence from his person, authorities said.

Fresno County Deputy Sheriff for 3 Years

Apodaca, who has worked for the sheriff’s office for three years, was immediately placed on administrative leave. He has since bonded out of jail. His next bond hearing is scheduled for May 28.

“Nothing is more important than maintaining the integrity of our respective agencies, and when serious misconduct is alleged, we will always do what is necessary to ensure quick and decisive action is taken to preserve public trust,” Fresno Police Chief Mindy Casto said in a statement.

Fresno County Sheriff John Zanoni called the allegations “disappointing” and said deputies are held to the same standards as the public.

“It is disappointing to see one of our own accused of the same types of violent crimes that I took an oath to combat,” Zanoni said. “I want to ensure the public that we hold our employees accountable just as we do community members who we contact and arrest for misconduct.”

Got a Tip?

Authorities asked anyone with information related to the case or similar allegations to contact the Fresno Police Department at (559) 621-7000.

Officials said no additional information would be released while the criminal and administrative investigations remain ongoing, police said.

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