GARDEN GROVE, CA – A 32-year-old Garden Grove police officer has been arrested and stripped of his duties following an investigation into allegations of inappropriate behavior with a female youth explorer.
The Investigation and Arrest
The Garden Grove Police Department was first notified of the potential inappropriate interactions on Friday, June 26. The allegations involve Officer Roberto Machuca and a juvenile female participant in the department’s Explorer program.
Following a rapid investigation, authorities arrested Machuca on the morning of Saturday, June 27. He was subsequently booked into the Orange County Jail.
Officer Relieved of Duties
Immediately following his arrest, Machuca was relieved of his duties as a police officer and placed on administrative leave.
While officials have not released the exact age of the minor involved, Garden Grove Police Sgt. Nick Jensen confirmed that the minimum age requirement to participate in the youth Explorer program is 14 years old.
Department Statement
In an official statement regarding the incident, the Garden Grove Police Department emphasized its commitment to youth safety, stating:
“The safety and security of our youth volunteers remains a top priority.”
The department confirmed that the criminal investigation into Machuca’s conduct remains active and ongoing.
