Coachella Teacher Arrested On Suspicion Of Lewd Acts With Student

COACHELLA, CA — Two months after authorities began investigating allegations of sexual assault of an underage student in Riverside County, a 42-year-old teacher was arrested.

Mario Valenzuela, 42, of Coachella, was arrested on Feb. 14 after deputies identified him as a suspect, the Riverside County Sheriff's Department said Wednesday.

A victim reported to school administration that a teacher had inappropriately touched them, according to the department. The agency did not disclose which school district Valenzuela works for.

Valenzuela was arrested in the 49000 block of Pluma Roja Place in Coachella. He was booked at the John Benoit Detention Center on charges of lewd acts with a minor, the department said.

Anyone with information about this case is urged to call Investigator Fernandez of the Thermal Sheriff’s Station by calling 760-863-8990. Call Valley Crimestoppers at 760-341-7867 to remain anonymous.