Unfortunately, we have told this story too often lately.....Protecting the children of this community is a core responsibility for all of us. For tips on protecting our kids, visit the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children:
Santa
Cruz Police Detectives worked throughout the weekend investigating a reported
child molestation case. The
investigation led to the arrest of:
Richard
Lester Brode – 67 years old, Santa Cruz Resident (Photo on Page 2)
The
case came to light after a mandated reporter contacted the Santa Cruz Police
Department on Friday January 31, 2014. Officers
followed up on the information and learned of several events that involved Mr.
Brode molesting young females. The
investigation revealed that Mr. Brode had used force on his victims and
forcefully held them against their will.
The age of the victims is not being disclosed to protect their
identity.
A
search warrant served on Mr. Brode’s residence led to the discovery of child
pornography in Mr. Brode’s possession.
The child pornography consisted of digital photos and printed
photos. Mr. Brode also had hard-bound
books that contained child pornography, with titles such as “Child Women” and
“Immediate Family”.
Mr.
Brode was booked into Santa Cruz County Jail on charges of (1) Assault with
Intent to Commit Rape, (2) False Imprisonment, (3) Lewd Conduct with Child
Under 14 years, and (4) Possession of Child Pornography.
Detectives
are continuing to follow up on the case to determine if there are additional
victims. Anyone with information is
asked to contact the Santa Cruz Police Department Investigations Unit at (831)
420-5820.
