A 32-year-old in-home behavioral therapist, Salvador Armando Arriaga, has been accused of sexually abusing a 14-year-old boy with autism during a therapy session. The incident came to light when the boy’s father, who was at home taking care of another child, decided to check in on the therapy session.
Arriaga, an employee of Behavioral Health Works based in Anaheim, was reportedly discovered in a walk-in closet in the teenager’s bedroom. The boy’s pants were pulled down at the time of the incident, according to the Orange County District Attorney. The father had trusted Arriaga, who had treated his son on several occasions prior to the incident.
Upon discovering the situation, the father confronted Arriaga. The therapist attempted to escape through the bedroom window but was unsuccessful. He then chose to flee the home on foot, leading the father to contact the police.
Arriaga later returned to the scene, reportedly wearing a different shirt, to speak with the police officers. He has pleaded not guilty to one charge of a lewd and lascivious act on a child under 14.
If convicted, Arriaga could face a maximum sentence of 25 years to life. He is currently being held on a $1 million bail. The incident has raised concerns about the safety of in-home therapy sessions and the need for stricter regulations and oversight in the industry.