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California Pastor and Jiu-Jitsu Instructor Accused of Yearslong Child Sex Abuse

A California man who investigators say worked as a pastor and Jiu-jitsu instructor has been arrested in connection with allegations of child sexual abuse spanning more than a decade. According to Fox News , Emmanuel…

Andrew PowellJul 20, 20262 min read

California Child Abuse Faith U.S. News

A California man who investigators say worked as a pastor and Jiu-jitsu instructor has been arrested in connection with allegations of child sexual abuse spanning more than a decade.

According to Fox News, Emmanuel Marchica, 51, of Hollister, was arrested July 10 after Monterey County Sheriff's Office detectives began investigating allegations involving a child.

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The investigation quickly expanded after detectives identified several additional alleged victims.

Authorities said the case began July 5 when deputies received a report alleging ongoing sexual abuse.

Investigators interviewed witnesses and served multiple search warrants before arresting Marchica.

Detectives said disclosures from alleged victims date back to at least 2012.

Based on the investigation so far, authorities believe there may be additional victims and witnesses who have not yet come forward.

At the time of his arrest, Marchica was reportedly serving as a pastor and regularly providing religious services at a community gathering center in San Benito County's Hidden Valley community.

Authorities did not identify the congregation or organization.

Investigators also said Marchica previously owned bakery businesses in Prunedale and Monterey.

He also operated gyms in Sand City, Seaside and Prunedale, where he reportedly offered physical therapy and massage therapy services and worked as a Jiu-jitsu instructor.

Detectives believe those roles and community connections may have brought Marchica into contact with other potential victims over the years.

Marchica was booked into the Monterey County Jail on multiple felony charges, including lewd or lascivious acts with a child, sexual penetration of a child, oral copulation with a child and annoying or molesting a child. His bail was set at $17.5 million.

The sheriff's office is asking anyone who may have been victimized by Marchica or who has information about the investigation to contact detectives.

"Detectives understand that victims of sexual abuse often delay reporting for many years," the Monterey County Sheriff's Office said.

"Regardless of when the abuse may have occurred, investigators encourage victims to know that they will be treated with dignity, compassion, and respect throughout the investigative process."

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Authorities urged anyone with relevant information to contact Detective Janelli Arroyo at (831) 755-7261 or Detective Sgt. Nicholas Kennedy at (831) 755-3773.