Hector Zaldivar Arrested for Child Sexual Abuse

Hector Edward Zaldivar has been arrested on suspicion of sexual abuse involving a former student. To speak with a child sexual abuse lawyer about filing a civil claim for financial compensation, contact Dordulian Law Group now at (866) GO-SEE-SAM.

Hector Zaldivar, a 4th-grade teacher at Terrace Elementary School in Riverside, was arrested February 12 for allegedly sexually abusing his former student, law enforcement officials confirmed.

Riverside Police began investigating Zaldivar, 53, of Ontario on February 11. Authorities initiated the investigation upon receiving a report from a young girl alleging her former teacher sexually abused her during summer school in June 2022 at Terrance Elementary.

Zaldivar was taken into custody the next day. Police have confirmed he was booked into the Robert Presley Detention Center on charges of lewd and lascivious acts with a child under 14, “using force.”

Timeline and Details of Teacher Hector Zaldivar’s Arrest

The case involving the Terrace Elementary School 4th-grade teacher unfolded quickly:

  • February 11: The juvenile victim reports the alleged abuse to police
  • February 12: Hector Edward Zaldivar is arrested in connection with the crimes
  • February 12: The suspect is booked into the Robert Presley Detention Center

Suspected sexual predator Hector Zaldivar’s bail has reportedly been set at $1 million.

Alvord Unified School District’s Response to Hector Zaldivar’s Arrest

Teacher Hector Zaldivar is currently employed by the Alvord Unified School District, according to a report from KTLA. Officials have confirmed that he was placed on administrative leave following the arrest for suspected sexual abuse of a former student.

Superintendent Resma Byrne released a statement addressing the situation:

“The health and safety of our students is our highest priority, and we are fully cooperating with the Riverside Police Department as they conduct their investigation. Alvord Unified School District has placed the teacher on immediate administrative leave and is taking all necessary steps to ensure the safety and support of our students, staff, and families. We encourage parents to have open conversations with their children and reach out if they need guidance or support. Counseling services are available for students and staff, and we urge anyone in need of assistance to contact their child’s teacher or site administrator. We understand that this news is deeply troubling, and we remain committed to providing a safe and supportive learning environment for all students.”

The district has emphasized its commitment to providing a safe learning environment and is offering counseling services to students and staff impacted by the arrest of Hector Zaldivar.

Police Seeking More Victims Following Arrest of Hector Zaldivar

Riverside Police have indicated they believe there may be additional victims abused by Hector Zaldivar who have yet to come forward.

If you have any information regarding a sex crime committed by 4th-grade teacher Hector Zaldivar, police urge you to please immediately contact Sexual Assault – Child Abuse SACA Detective Steven Espinosa at 951-353-7120 or [email protected].

Anonymous tips may be submitted using the RPD’s Atlas 1 mobile app, which offers a secure messaging feature.

How to File Your Hector Zaldivar Sexual Abuse Lawsuit

In addition to any criminal charges that are filed in this case, victims of Hector Zaldivar may choose to pursue civil lawsuits seeking financial compensation. Sadly, teacher and school sexual abuse cases happen frequently in Southern California.

By filing a civil lawsuit with Dordulian Law Group’s trusted child sexual abuse attorneys, victims may be eligible to recover various damages:

  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional trauma
  • Psychological harm
  • Lost wages
  • Diminished quality of life
  • Punitive damages

To speak with a member of our SAJE Team (Sexual Abuse Justice Experts), please call (866) GO-SEE-SAM for your free & confidential attorney consultation. There is no fee unless we win your case and help you and your family secure justice through maximum financial compensation.

About Dordulian Law Group’s Child Sexual Abuse Lawyers

Dordulian Law Group was founded by Sam Dordulian, a former sex crimes prosecutor and Deputy District Attorney for Los Angeles County. Prior to founding D Law Group, Dordulian worked tirelessly to successfully secure life sentences against countless sex offenders, thereby making our communities safer.

Today, he and the D Law Group SAJE Team help victims of sexual abuse secure justice through civil claims. Dordulian and his team have helped clients obtain more than $200 million in settlements and verdicts while maintaining a near-perfect 98% winning record in all cases.

Dordulian Law Group supports parents, educators, and community members in working together to create an environment where children feel safe to speak up about any inappropriate behavior.

Some key points for parents to consider:

  • Encourage open communication with children about personal safety
  • Be aware of warning signs that may indicate abuse
  • Report any suspicions of misconduct immediately
  • Support comprehensive background checks for all school employees

To speak with a Riverside sexual abuse lawyer, contact Dordulian Law Group at (866) GO-SEE-SAM today.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions About Hector Edward Zaldivar’s Arrest)

Terrace Elementary School 4th-grade teacher Hector Zaldivar was arrested on suspicion of sexually abusing a former student. A juvenile girl reportedly came forward with allegations of sexual abuse occurring in 2022 when she was in Zaldivar’s summer school class.

If you suspect child abuse, report it immediately to local law enforcement or child protective services. You can also inform school administrators, but always prioritize contacting authorities first.

Start age-appropriate conversations early, teach children about personal boundaries, encourage them to trust their instincts, and assure them it’s always okay to tell a trusted adult if something makes them uncomfortable.

Warning signs may include sudden changes in behavior, fear of certain people or places, inappropriate sexual knowledge for their age, unexplained physical symptoms, or withdrawal from friends and activities.

Schools can enhance their hiring processes by conducting thorough background checks, contacting multiple references, implementing ongoing training programs, and creating a culture of vigilance and accountability among staff.

Author

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Sam Dordulian, founder

Sam Dordulian is an award-winning sexual abuse lawyer with over 25 years’ experience helping survivors secure justice. As a former sex crimes prosecutor and Deputy District Attorney for L.A. County, he secured life sentences against countless sexual predators. Mr. Dordulian currently serves on the National Leadership Council for RAINN.

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A former Deputy District Attorney, Sam Dordulian is a highly-experienced lawyer in Los Angeles, CA, who has assisted in the prosecution of countless criminals. He is now using his experience and passion to advocate for sexual abuse victims and those involved in personal injury disputes.