Pastor Sentenced to 45 Years for Sexually Assaulting 3 Girls

URGENT UPDATE: A Southern California pastor has been sentenced to 45 years to life in prison for the sexual assault of three young girls, an alarming case that has shocked the community. Carlos Ramirez Valdez, aged 61, was convicted of multiple felonies related to these heinous acts that took place between 2012 and 2019.

The Orange County District Attorney’s Office confirmed the sentencing on October 24, 2025, highlighting the disturbing nature of the crimes committed by Valdez while he served as a church leader. During his time at Iglesia De Dios Ebenezer Church from 2014 to 2017, Valdez exploited his position of trust to prey on vulnerable children.

Prosecutors revealed harrowing details about the assaults, including one victim who was just 4 years old when the abuse began, which continued for seven years. Valdez would lure the young girl into the church’s basement or a van parked in the church lot. The girl ultimately reported the abuse to a school counselor, leading to a police investigation.

Additional victims came forward in January 2020. One girl, who was only 9 years old, told Garden Grove police that Valdez had molested her after giving her rides home from church. Another victim, aged 7 to 8 years old, reported that Valdez repeatedly assaulted her in a backyard shed over an eight-month span in 2017.

In total, Valdez faced 11 felony counts of lewd or lascivious acts with a minor under the age of 14 and three felony counts of oral copulation or sexual penetration of a child 10 years old or younger. His conviction marks a significant moment for justice in this distressing case.

Todd Spitzer, the Orange County District Attorney, emphasized the importance of protecting children, stating,

“Churches should be safe sanctuaries, not hunting grounds for child molesters. These young girls were subjected to unimaginable abuse by someone in a position of trust. The sexual exploitation of children will never be acceptable, and predators will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”

This case serves as a stark reminder of the critical need for vigilance and accountability within communities. As the legal proceedings conclude, the focus will shift towards supporting the victims and ensuring their voices are heard.

The impact of Valdez’s actions extends far beyond the courtroom, affecting not only the victims but also the broader faith community that trusted him. Authorities are urging anyone with additional information to come forward as they continue to investigate potential other victims.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as more details emerge. The fight for justice for these young girls is far from over, and the community is rallying for change in the wake of this tragedy.