Beverly Hills Music Teacher Suspected Of Molesting Student, 13

ENCINO, CA — A 41-year-old piano teacher suspected of sexually assaulting a 13-year-old student since July was taken into custody Thursday after investigators executed a search warrant in Encino.

Detectives located Van Nuys resident Hovanes John Jihanyan Thursday in Encino with the assistance of undercover officers, according to the Santa Monica Police Department.

Investigators from the Youth and Family Services received reports about Jihanyan allegedly engaging in sexual activities with a student since July, where the assaults occurred at the student's residence, the suspect's vehicle, and studio, French Conservatory in Beverly Hills.

Jihanyan was booked on suspicion of lewd acts on a minor 13 years or younger, continuous sex abuse of a minor 13 years or younger, sexual assault on a minor 13 years or younger with the perpetrator being 10 years older, possession of child pornography, and sexual exploitation of a minor. He remained in custody Thursday evening.

Police said the case is pending formal charges from the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office and that Jihanyan has no prior criminal history.

Anyone with information regarding the alleged sexual abuse was urged to call Detective Lizette Hardgrave at 310-458-2256, Sgt. David Haro at 310-458- 8952, or the watch commander at 310-458-8427.

City News Service