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According to the LA Times, a Los Angeles County Amazon delivery driver has been arrested following allegations of assaulting individuals while on duty. Fernando Barreto-Hernandez, 24, a resident of Los Angeles, was taken into custody on January 24, as announced by the Glendale Police Department.
The allegations stem from an incident on January 21, where Barreto-Hernandez reportedly assaulted a woman walking near Brand Boulevard and Chevy Chase Drive in Glendale. This event prompted an investigation that linked him to another incident in December. In that case, authorities say a female minor was assaulted, leading to further charges.
Barreto-Hernandez has been charged with lewd or lascivious acts involving a child under 14 years old and inappropriate physical contact with another individual for the purpose of sexual arousal. He has entered a plea of not guilty to the charges. Following his arrest, he was released on bond.
Barreto-Hernandez has been employed by Amazon, Amazon Flex, and FedEx. Police are now urging anyone with additional information or knowledge of other potential victims to come forward. Detectives from the Glendale Police Department’s assaults unit can be reached at (818) 548-3106.
Authorities continue to investigate the case, with concerns that there may be more individuals affected.
Victims of sexual abuse often face complex legal and emotional challenges when seeking accountability. CA sexual abuse lawyer, Jason Amala shares practical legal guidance for those sexually assaulted by a delivery driver. The conversation highlights key steps victims can take to protect their rights, navigate the legal system, and pursue the justice they deserve.
Editor Darla Medina: Thank you for joining me. As this story unfolds, many might wonder what legal rights victims of sexual abuse have in situations like this. Can you explain what options are available to them?
Attorney Jason Amala: Absolutely. Victims of sexual abuse have the right to pursue justice through both criminal and civil legal systems. While the criminal system focuses on holding the perpetrator accountable to society, civil lawsuits allow victims to seek financial compensation for the harm they’ve endured. This includes damages for emotional distress, therapy costs, medical expenses, and lost wages, among other impacts.
Medina: In cases where an individual was assaulted by someone working for a company, how can the company itself be held accountable?
Amala: That’s a key question. Employers can be held liable if negligence on their part allowed the abuse to occur. For example, if a company failed to conduct proper background checks, ignored complaints, or didn’t implement adequate supervision, victims can file claims against the company for failing to protect them. In this case, if negligence by Amazon or any other employer contributed to these alleged assaults, they could be named in civil lawsuits.
Medina: For victims who may feel hesitant or unsure about coming forward, what advice would you give?
Amala: It’s completely normal to feel hesitant, but it’s important to know that you’re not alone and there are resources to help. Reaching out to a trusted attorney who specializes in sexual abuse cases can provide clarity on the steps you can take. Additionally, advocacy organizations can offer support during the process. Every case is unique, and a lawyer can help identify the best path forward to ensure your rights are protected.
Medina: How important is it for victims to act quickly in filing civil claims?
Amala: Acting promptly is important because there are legal deadlines, known as statutes of limitations, which limit the time victims have to file a lawsuit. In California, these laws have been expanded in recent years to give survivors more time, but it’s still important to consult an attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights.
If your family has been affected by sexual abuse involving an Amazon delivery driver, remember that you don’t have to face this alone. Legal options are available to help you seek justice and hold the responsible parties accountable. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore how we can assist your family in this difficult time.
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