California Highway Patrol Officer James Grider, of Bakersfield, Arrested Following Allegations of Child Sexual Abuse

BAKERSFIELD, CALIFORNIA (August 10, 2023) – A Bakersfield California Highway Patrol officer identified as James Grider has been arrested on charges of child molestation.

Kern County officials are saying that the arrest took place on June 16, 2023. James Grider had outstanding warrants for child molestation, oral copulation and other sexual crimes.

The former CHP officer allegedly engaged in a pattern of sexual abuse with a minor over the age of 14. He was employed by the Buttonwillow CHP office for more than 22 years prior to his arrest.

Anyone that may have more information about the actions of James Grider should reach out to the CHP as they continue to investigate this matter.

 

Liability For Sexual Abuse Involving Police Officers

Police officers are entrusted with a great deal of power. They are expected to serve and protect. But far too often officers use their authority to sexually abuse people. According to the National Women’s Law Center, “sexual misconduct is the second most frequently reported type of police misconduct, after excessive force, and both of these are also tied to racism. A 2010 study found that the rate of sexual assault by police is more than double that of the general public.” There are a number of steps that police departments should take in order to prevent sexual abuse among their officers.

• Police officers should be thoroughly vetted before they are hired.
• Police officers should have their body cameras turned on when they interact with the public.
• All instances of sexual abuse involving police officers should be thoroughly investigated.

It is illegal for police officers or any other adult to have a sexual relationship with a minor. According to California Penal Code 288, it is a crime for any person to commit lewd or lascivious conduct with a person under the age of 14. Moreover, the police department that an officer worked for could be liable for sexual assault if that officer committed the offense under the color of law. For example, a number of officers have sexually molested suspects under the pretense of a search. Many steps should be taken after any instance of sexual abuse involving a police officer.

• A police report of the incident should be created.
• Eye witnesses should be interviewed.
• Any prior complaints about the officer should be reviewed.
• An experienced sexual abuse attorney should be consulted.

Sexual abuse is one of the most harmful and destructive things that most people will ever go through. It is particularly difficult for children. Any person that is sexually abused by a police officer may have legal recourse through a civil claim. Sadly, though, police departments will often fight hard to deny liability if one of their officers sexually abuses someone. A sexual abuse attorney can examine all of the unique facts of your case and let you know if you have a claim that can be pursued.

 

Getting Legal Help After Police Sexual Abuse

We at the Sehat Law Firm extend our best wishes to all of the people who may have been harmed by the actions of Bakersfield CHP officer James Grider. Any person that may have more information about what happened should reach out to the CHP. There needs to be some accountability for what took place.

Have you or someone that you care about been sexually abused by a police officer? There are a number of laws designed to protect your rights. Our team of sexual abuse attorneys are here to assist in any way that we can. We focus on helping those who have been harmed by law enforcement. Whether you just have legal questions or are thinking about hiring an attorney we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (949) 825-5200.