Peninsula Equestrian Coach Arrested In Juvenile Sex Investigation

SAN MATEO COUNTY, CA — A Peninsula equestrian coach was arrested earlier this month in connection with ongoing juvenile sex investigation, the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office said.

Alec Lawler, 30 of Atherton, was arrested on suspicion of arranging to meet with a minor for a sex act among other charges, the Sheriff’s Office said.

Lawler was arrested Jan. 5 in Riverside County with assistance from local authorities, the Sheriff’s Office said.

Lawler posted bail and is currently out of custody.

His arrest culminated an investigation that lasted several months.

Investigators determined that Lawler exchanged sexual photographs with one of his juvenile equestrian students, the Sheriff’s Office said.

Lawler is an equestrian coach who worked in Portola Valley and other locations throughout San Mateo County.

Lawler coached numerous juveniles over the past several years.

“Due to Lawler working closely as a coach with many juveniles, Detectives are concerned there are potentially more victims,” the Sheriff’s Office said.

Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact Detective C. Barker, phone: 650-474-1243 or e-mail: CBarker@smcgov.org or the anonymous tip line: 1-800-547-2700