Assistant Pastor Arrested

A local assistant pastor was arrested on April 5th, 2007, after allegations were made that he had sexually molested a nine year old girl. Misael Blanco Sarsoza 56 years-of-age who resides in West Covina, was working at the time as an assistant pastor at the Whittier Seventh-Day Adventist Church. The case was reported to the Whittier Police Department by the grandparents of the victim. Sarsoza gave bible study classes and prepared sermons for the church. Sarsoza had direct contact with various children with in the church. After Sarsoza was arrested he posted a hundred thousand dollar bail for his release from custody. Sarsoza is charged with one count of lewd and lascivious acts on minor under the age of fourteen and awaits his court date. Anyone with further information or questions can contact Det. Greg Hamilton at (562) 945-8274.