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ABC 7 reported that a Riverside man whose wife owns a local daycare center has been arrested and charged with sexually abusing multiple children in his care. The victims attended Chavez Family Daycare, located in the 18400 block of Blue Sky Street in Riverside, CA.
Antonio Robles Chavez, 65, is facing two counts of lewd acts on a child under 14 years old, as well as sentence-enhancing allegations of taking advantage of a position of trust and targeting vulnerable victims. Chavez pleaded not guilty to the charges during an arraignment on Tuesday.
The charges stem from a Riverside Police Department investigation that was initiated on July 2 after authorities received reports that a girl at Chavez Family Daycare had been allegedly groped. Through their investigation, detectives determined that two other children had also been sexually abused by Chavez within the past three years while attending the daycare.
"Detectives contacted other families that utilize Chavez Family Daycare, located in the (18400 block) of Blue Sky Street," said Riverside police spokesman Officer Ryan Railsback. "Through their efforts, they determined two other children had also been sexually abused by Chavez within the past three years while attending the daycare, but never disclosed the crimes."
Chavez was arrested without incident on July 3, 2024 and is currently being held in lieu of $1 million bail at the Smith Correctional Facility in Banning. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for July 19 at the Riverside Hall of Justice to determine if there is sufficient evidence to bound the defendant over for trial.
The Chavez Family Daycare has been licensed by the California Department of Social Services since 2010 and is based at the Chavez family home. Detectives have filed a complaint seeking suspension of the daycare's operations.
Railsback said that SACA (Sexual Assault-Child Abuse) investigators believe there may be other victims, and they are urging anyone with information to come forward and contact the unit at 951-353-7945.
The defendant has no documented prior felony convictions in Riverside County.
In the wake of the disturbing allegations against Riverside daycare owner Antonio Robles Chavez, we sat down with experienced California lawyer Jason Amala to discuss the legal remedies available to families whose children have been sexually abused at a daycare. Amala, who has decades of experience handling these sensitive cases, provided valuable guidance on civil claims, criminal proceedings, and ways for parents to ensure their child's care facility maintains the highest standards of safety and accountability.
Editor Darla Medina: Can you tell us what legal recourse is available for victims and their families in a situation involving daycare sexual abuse?
Attorney Jason Amala: Absolutely, Darla. Families whose children have been abused at a daycare or preschool have several important legal options. First and foremost, they can pursue civil claims against the perpetrator, the daycare owner, and potentially the daycare licensing agency if negligence can be proven. This can provide much-needed compensation for medical expenses, trauma counseling, and other damages.
Medina: And what about holding the daycare itself accountable?
Amala: That's a great question. Daycare owners have a duty of care to ensure the safety of the children in their charge. If they fail to properly screen employees, implement adequate supervision protocols, or respond appropriately to reports of abuse, they can be held civilly liable.
The fact that this daycare has been licensed since 2010 doesn't absolve the owner of responsibility. Licensing agencies aren't infallible, and owners still have an ongoing obligation to maintain a safe environment. Families may have grounds to sue the daycare itself, as well as the abuser personally, depending on the specifics of the case.
Medina: That's very helpful context. For parents who may be concerned about the safety of their child's daycare, what advice would you offer?
Amala: I would encourage all parents to be vigilant and ask plenty of questions. Visit the facility, meet the staff, and trust your instincts. Background check the owners and employees. And if you ever have any concerns about inappropriate behavior or unsafe conditions, report them immediately to the daycare, licensing authorities, and law enforcement if necessary. An ounce of prevention can go a long way in these cases.
Medina: That's great advice. Thank you for sharing your expertise on this important issue. We appreciate you taking the time to speak with us.
Amala: Happy to help, Darla. Protecting vulnerable children is of the utmost importances.
For families whose children have been abused at a daycare or preschool, the road to recovery can be long and difficult. However, it's important to know that you are not alone, and there are dedicated professionals ready to fight for your rights and your child's well-being. If you or a loved one has been affected by this type of abuse, we encourage you to reach out to our firm for a free, confidential consultation. Our team of compassionate, experienced lawyers is committed to securing the justice and compensation you deserve, while also providing the resources and support your family needs during this challenging time. Don't hesitate to take the first step towards healing and accountability. Contact us today to learn more about your legal options.
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