Legal Analysis By Attorneys
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In a disturbing turn of events, a South Gate man with a history of employment at numerous schools and child-care centers has been charged with sexually abusing two young boys. The Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office announced the charges on Tuesday, August 6, 2026, per ABC 7.
27-year-old Andrew Louie Sandoval is set to be arraigned next Tuesday in a Norwalk courtroom. He faces a staggering array of charges, including seven counts of lewd act on a child under age 14, two counts of oral copulation with a child 10 years or younger, one count of sodomy with a child 10 years old or younger, and one count of possession of more than 600 images of child or youth pornography.
The alleged crimes occurred in Los Angeles County between November 2015 and 2024. Investigators are now searching for other potential victims, as Sandoval's employment history includes work as a substitute teacher and teacher's aide in several schools throughout the greater Los Angeles area.
District Attorney George Gascón expressed grave concern over the "abhorrent nature of these crimes against children" and Sandoval's employment in schools and childcare settings. Gascón urged anyone with additional information to come forward, stating that the "courage to come forward can ensure justice for those who have been harmed."
South Gate Police Chief Darren Arakawa echoed these sentiments, describing the case as "shocking to its core" and vowing that the investigation will continue until all leads have been exhausted.
Sandoval was arrested on July 25 and has remained in custody since then, with his bail set at just over $7 million. If convicted as charged, he could face a maximum potential sentence of life in prison.
Authorities are urging any other potential victims or individuals with information to contact the South Gate Police Department.
In the wake of the disturbing allegations against Andrew Sandoval, a substitute teacher charged with sexual abuse, the legal options available to school sexual abuse victims and their families have come into sharp focus. Jason Amala, a California-based attorney with extensive experience in sexual abuse cases, explores the avenues for justice and accountability.
Editor Darla Medina: Thank you for taking the time to speak with us today. Given the nature of the allegations against Andrew Sandoval, what legal recourse do school sexual abuse victims and their families have?
Attorney Jason Amala: Well, Darla, this is a truly devastating situation. Victims of such horrific situations have several legal options they can pursue. First and foremost, they may be able to file civil lawsuits against their abuser for the sexual abuse they endured. Additionally, they may have grounds to hold the schools or childcare facilities accountable for any negligence in their hiring and supervision practices.
DM: Can you expand on that a bit? How might the schools and childcare centers be held responsible in a case like this?
JA: Absolutely. Schools and childcare providers have a duty of care to protect the children in their charge. If they failed to properly vet the substitute's background, or if they received any prior complaints or indications of inappropriate behavior and did not act, then they could be found negligent. The victims may be able to seek damages from these institutions for their failure to keep the children safe.
DM: This is all very concerning. What advice would you give to the victims and their families as they navigate this difficult situation?
JA: My advice would be to seek experienced legal counsel as soon as possible. An attorney who specializes in sexual abuse cases can help guide them through the process, ensure their rights are protected, and work to hold all responsible parties accountable. It's also crucial that the victims receive the necessary medical and psychological support to aid in their recovery.
As the victims and their families navigate this harrowing ordeal, it is crucial that they seek the support and legal representation they need. Jason Amala emphasized the importance of working with an experienced attorney who specializes in sexual abuse cases, as they can guide the process, protect the victims' rights, and pursue all available avenues for accountability and compensation.
If you or a loved one have been affected by sexual abuse, please don't hesitate to reach out. Our team is here to provide a free, confidential consultation and help you explore your legal options. Together, we can work towards justice and the healing that the victims and their families deserve.
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