GONZALES — Gonzales resident Jose Christian Montenegro, 30, was sentenced Jan. 20 to 34 years in prison for committing four counts of forcible lewd acts upon a child under 14 and one count of lewd act on a child under age 14.
“These offenses are serious and violent felonies and considered strikes under California’s Three Strikes law,” according to the Monterey County District Attorney’s Office in a news release Jan. 22. “Montenegro will also be required to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life.”
Jane Doe 1 reported that Montenegro, a family member, had been sexually assaulting her for many years.
“Jane Doe 1 reported that Montenegro began touching her intimate areas when she was 6 or 7 years old,” stated the DA’s Office. “Montenegro would touch her both over and under her clothing numerous times a week. The touching continued until Jane Doe 1 reported the abuse when she was 13 years old.”
Doe 1’s disclosure to law enforcement resulted in Jane Doe 2 reporting that Montenegro had sexually assaulted her as well. Doe 2 reported that Montenegro touched her one time under the clothing when she was 9 years old.
“According to research into sexual assault victim behavior, it is very common for victims to delay reporting the sexual abuse, especially when the victim is a minor and has a close relationship with the perpetrator,” stated the DA’s Office.
