BENICIA (KRON)–Police say they have arrested a Solano County youth pastor suspected of committing lewd acts with one of his underage female Bible study students.

According to police, 38-year-old John Edward Gamboa was booked into Solano County Jail Tuesday on suspicion of committing lewd acts with a minor. Police say they are not identifying the church or the name of the girl since she is under the age of 14.

Police say Gamboa and the girl knew one another before they allegedly began talking and texting each other earlier this year. According to police, the parents learned of the communication and warned Gamboa to stop the inappropriate behavior after mediating the issue through the church. Police say Gamboa allegedly continued to meet with the girl on various occasions and engage in kissing and inappropriate touching with her.

Lieutenant Mike Daley said the girl’s parents contacted police after the girl’s mother found inappropriate text messages on her daughter’s phone. Daley said the girl had admitted the behavior to her mother.

Police say Gamboa was contacted by authorities and admitted the allegations during a statement at police headquarters. He was arrested without incident.

Legal considerations: Sexual abuse (molestation) is an intentional act of abuse. Molesters are very often a person the victim knows and is familiar with. Some examples include, physicians, coaches, clergy, teachers and nursing home providers. Victims of sexual abuse may bring a civil claim for physical and emotional damages. Through a civil claim, the Law Offices of Gary A. Kessler can hold a molester or their employer financially responsible for damages or sexual abuse. A claim can be brought directly against the abuser, or the abuser’s employer, if that entity was negligent in screening, hiring or supervising the  abusive employee.

Justice for Victims of Abuse: The Law Offices of Gary A. Kessler have represented victims of sexual abuse throughout California. We know that, although no amount of money can undo the emotional and psychological pain of an an unthinkable sexual act, compensation can allow victims and their families the resources necessary to obtain counseling and psychological care. Contact the Law Offices of Gary A. Kessler for a free confidential consultation.