Moreno Valley, CA - A Moreno Valley school officer has been arrested following a month-long investigation into allegations of sexual assault involving a student, the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office announced Monday.
According to the department, deputies from the Moreno Valley Sheriff’s Station initially responded in November 2025 to a report of inappropriate contact between a Campus Supervising Officer and a student at a school located in the 23000 block of Cougar Canyon Road, where Canyon Springs High School is situated.
Suspect Identified as 51-Year-Old Perris Man
Investigators from the Sheriff’s Special Victims Unit took over the case due to the nature of the allegations. Their investigation identified the suspect as 51-year-old Perris resident Richard Feliciano Romero.
On December 11, detectives executed a search warrant at Romero’s home in the 20000 block of Marcheta Place, assisted by deputies from the Perris Sheriff’s Station. During the operation, Romero was taken into custody and booked on multiple charges, including sodomy by force, solicitation of child sexual abuse material, and additional child sexual abuse-related offenses.
District Statement and Ongoing Investigation
The Moreno Valley Unified School District released a statement confirming its cooperation with law enforcement. “This is an active investigation, and we are cooperating fully with the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department,” the district said. “Due to the sensitive nature of the allegations and to protect the integrity of the investigation, no further information will be shared.”
District officials have not confirmed whether Romero remains employed or has been placed on leave.
Authorities continue to investigate and are asking anyone with information to contact Riverside County Sheriff’s investigators at (951) 955-1718.
Legal Options for Students Sexually Abused by School Resource Officers
After the arrest of a Moreno Valley school officer accused of sexually assaulting a student, questions have surfaced about what rights victims have when abuse occurs within a school setting. To better understand the legal steps survivors can take, we sat down with California sexual abuse lawyer Jason Amala to discuss how victims can hold individuals and institutions accountable through civil and criminal legal actions.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: When a student reports sexual abuse by a school officer, what legal options are available?
Jason Amala, Esq.: Victims can pursue both criminal and civil actions. The criminal case is handled by law enforcement and prosecutors, while the civil process allows survivors to hold the school district or employing agency accountable for failing to protect them. Filing a civil claim can secure compensation for emotional and psychological harm.
Banville: Is there a time limit for taking legal action?
Amala: Yes, but California has extended its statute of limitations for childhood sexual assault cases. Survivors now have more time to come forward, even years after the abuse occurred. It’s still important to speak with an attorney as soon as possible to preserve evidence and understand their rights.
Banville: What role does the school district play legally?
Amala: If the district ignored complaints, failed to supervise staff, or neglected safety policies, it can be held liable. These cases aren’t just about accountability for one person—they examine how the system allowed abuse to happen.
Free Legal Help for Survivors of School Sexual Abuse
Victims and families affected by sexual abuse at schools deserve answers and support. Our team of dedicated attorneys stands ready to help survivors understand their rights and explore every available option for legal action. If you or someone you love has experienced abuse by a school resource officer or staff member, contact us today for a free, confidential consultation to discuss your case and start the path toward justice.
Source
https://www.cbsnews.com/losangeles/news/moreno-valley-school-officer-sexual-assault-student-arrest/
