San Jacinto, CA – A 31-year-old employee of a youth residential facility in Riverside County has been arrested after investigators uncovered allegations of predatory acts involving children under his care, officials confirmed Saturday.
Arrest Follows Yearlong Investigation into Alleged Crimes Against Minors
The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department reported that detectives with the San Jacinto Station began investigating Antoine Christopher Sims in September 2024 following concerns about inappropriate conduct with minors at a licensed treatment facility.
Deputies Identify Multiple Victims and Pattern of Misconduct
Through a yearlong investigation, authorities identified several victims and uncovered what they described as a pattern of grooming, inappropriate communications, and unlawful contact.
On September 18, 2025, investigators located Sims near Sycamore Canyon Lane and Bachelor Peak Street in Winchester. He was arrested without incident and booked into the Larry D. Smith Correctional Facility. He faces multiple felony charges, including lewd acts with a child and oral copulation with a minor under 16.
Officials Urge Potential Victims to Come Forward
The sheriff’s department stated that the investigation remains active, and no further details will be released due to the involvement of juvenile victims. Investigators believe additional victims may exist and encourage anyone with information to contact Investigator D. Hollingsworth at the San Jacinto Station at 951-654-2702 or Riverside Sheriff’s Dispatch at 951-776-1099.
Support services for survivors of abuse and exploitation are available through the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800-656-4673 or online at rainn.org.
Legal Options for Families of Children Abused in Youth Facilities
Families whose children have suffered abuse in youth residential facilities often face difficult questions about their legal rights and next steps. In this interview, California attorney Jason Amala discusses the options available to families seeking accountability and compensation. He explains how survivors can take action against both individual abusers and negligent institutions, and the measures families can take to protect their children’s futures.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: What legal steps can victims of abuse by a youth facility employee take?
Jason Amala, Esq.: Victims have several paths. They can file civil lawsuits seeking compensation for the harm suffered, holding both the abuser and the institution accountable. It’s also important to act swiftly due to changing statutes of limitations in California for abuse cases.
Banville: What support can victims expect during this process?
Amala: Survivors receive not only legal representation but also guidance through the emotional difficulties involved. Experienced attorneys ensure their clients’ voices are heard and fight aggressively to secure justice and foster healing.
Banville: How can victims initiate this process?
Amala: Contacting a skilled attorney promptly is key. Early action strengthens the case and helps uncover additional victims, ensuring all responsible parties are held accountable.
Support Is Within Reach: Contact Us for a Free Consultation
If this story resonates or brings up difficult memories, remember that help is available. Families and survivors affected by abuse can reach out for a free consultation to discuss their rights and options confidentially. Taking that first step to connect with experienced professionals can make a significant difference in healing and justice. Do not hesitate to contact us today to explore your path forward with support and understanding.
