Man in California faces 75-year sentence for sexual assaults on children and a cat
In California, a man appeared in court on Wednesday and pleaded not guilty to 18 counts of sexual assault involving three children… and a cat, according to American media outlet 29News. The police described the case as one of the worst they have ever had to deal with, especially given that one of the child victims was very young. Zai Soto, 21, could face a total of 75 years in prison if convicted on all charges.
Initially, the Seaside police had launched an investigation into Zai Soto for allegations of indecent exposure to two children under the age of 13 at the store where he worked. However, as their investigations progressed and they searched his electronic devices – computer, smartphone – they discovered several videos showing him committing sexual violence against a one-year-old child as well as a cat. “Cases like this are particularly heartbreaking, because if we think about it, infants and animals are the most vulnerable members of our community. They do not have the ability to defend themselves,” said Lana Nassoura, Deputy District Attorney of Monterey County.
Four million dollar bail
Zai Soto was arrested on Monday by the Seaside police, who described the case as one of the worst they have ever had to deal with. “It’s the kind of thing that really sticks with you. It’s truly disturbing and worrying. So, we currently have a person in custody for very serious charges, and we have solid evidence to pursue the investigation,” said Police Chief Nick Borges.
For now, the suspect remains held at the Monterey County jail, with his bail set at over four million dollars. Prosecutors do not rule out the possibility of there being other alleged victims.
