Moorpark man charged with four felonies alleging molestation of young child
Maurisio Tapia, 26, of Moorpark, was charged Oct. 22 with four felony counts of child molestation, including sodomy and oral copulation with a child under 10. The filing cites two aggravating factors: a position of trust and a particularly vulnerable victim.
Ventura County District Attorney Erik Nasarenko announced that Maurisio Tapia, 26, of Moorpark, has been charged with four felony counts of child molestation.
The charges. Tapia is charged with sodomy, sexual penetration, and two counts of oral copulation, all with a child under 10 years old, according to the district attorney's Oct. 22 news release. He also faces two factors in aggravation: taking advantage of a position of trust and the victim being particularly vulnerable.
The investigation. Tapia is accused of molesting a child under the age of 10 over several months in 2026 and on numerous occasions, according to the release. The abuse allegedly happened at a home in Moorpark. Tapia had access to the victim through a familial relationship. The victim reported the alleged abuse to a trusted family member.
Background. Tapia is the frontman for local indie rock band Los Retros.
Statement. 'Crimes involving the sexual exploitation and abuse of children are particularly disturbing and demand a vigorous response,' District Attorney Erik Nasarenko said. 'We are committed to seeking justice for victims and sending a clear message that the sexual abuse of children will not be tolerated in Ventura County.'
Prosecution. Senior Deputy District Attorney Twyla Atmore, a member of the District Attorney's Office Sexual Assault Unit, is prosecuting the case.
Next steps in court. Tapia was arraigned Oct. 22 in Ventura County Superior Court and pleaded not guilty to all charges. He remains in custody with bail set at $3 million. A bail review is scheduled for Oct. 29, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. in courtroom 13. An early disposition conference is scheduled for Dec. 2, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. in courtroom 12.
Sources
- Ventura County District Attorney news release No. 26-150, Oct. 22, 2026 (district attorney news release)Oct 22, 2026
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