LOS ANGELES (CNS) - A Los Angeles police officer who allegedly touched a dead woman's breast while he was on duty last fall is set to be arraigned today on a felony count.
David Rojas, 27, is charged with having sexual contact with human remains without authority, according to the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office.
Rojas and his partner responded Oct. 20 to a report of a possible dead woman in a residence, authorities said. Rojas allegedly touched the woman's breast while he was alone in the room, according to the District Attorney's Office.
The four-year Los Angeles Police Department veteran -- who was assigned to the downtown-area Central Division -- was subsequently placed on leave, according to the Los Angeles Times.
The allegation against Rojas was brought to the department Nov. 20, police said. He was arrested Dec. 12 by Los Angeles police and released on $20,000 bond later that day, according to jail records.
“This incident is extremely disturbing and does not represent the values of the Los Angeles Police Department,” Los Angeles Police Chief Michel Moore said.
“We hope that District Attorney Jackie Lacey charging Mr. Rojas for his vile alleged crime will bring some solace to the deceased woman's family during their time of grieving,” the Los Angeles Police Protective League Board of Directors said in a statement released after Rojas was charged. “The Los Angeles Police Protective League will not defend Mr. Rojas during his criminal proceedings, and his alleged behavior is abhorrent and an affront to every law enforcement professional working for the LAPD.”
Rojas could face up to three years in state prison if convicted as charged, according to the District Attorney's Office.
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