According to KRON 4, a janitorial services company employee has been charged with sexual abuse after allegedly coercing a subordinate into a sexual act at the Palo Alto Veterans Affairs Hospital, located at 4951 Arroyo Rd, Livermore, CA 94550.
Onofre Salas-Lozano, 40, of Palo Alto, was charged with aggravated sexual abuse, sexual abuse, and making false statements to a federal agent during an investigation stemming from an incident that occurred on July 2, 2021.
Salas-Lozano was the victim's direct supervisor at the janitorial company and is accused of using force and fear to cause the victim to engage in a sex act at the hospital. He is also accused of lying to a special agent at the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of the Inspector General, saying he and the victim never had sex.
The sexual abuse charges against Salas-Lozano carry maximum sentence of life in prison. He was arraigned on Friday, and his next court appearance is scheduled for May 3.
Attorney contributor Jason Amala is a sexual assault lawyer helping victims across the state of California. Bobby represents sex assault victims and their families in civil court, ensuring they receive the justice they deserve. Bobby sat down with us to answer, "can I sue for sexual abuse at work?"
"As a sexual assault attorney, I am appalled by the prevalence of sexual assault in the workplace. No one should ever have to experience such a violation of their rights, and the fact that it is often perpetrated by someone in power further compounds the issue.
It is important to understand that victims of workplace sexual assault have rights and can take legal action. In some cases, a victim may be able to file a civil lawsuit against the perpetrator and the employer in order to seek damages for the harm they have suffered. Employers have a duty to ensure all employees and people in charge have undergone a background check. In addition, victims may also be able to pursue criminal charges against the perpetrator in order to hold them accountable for their actions.
It is also important to remember that victims of workplace sexual assault have the right to remain anonymous should they choose to do so. They should also be aware that they have the right to seek counseling and other forms of support as they process their experiences.
As an attorney, I strongly believe that victims of workplace sexual assault should take full advantage of their legal rights. No one should ever have to experience such a violation of their rights, and it is essential that those responsible for perpetrating such acts are held accountable. Victims should reach out to an experienced sexual assault lawyer to learn more about their legal options."