Anonymous
By the Santa Barbara County District Attorney’s Office
Santa Barbara County District Attorney John T. Savrnoch announced that on August 28, 2023, a jury found Teodoro Antonio Coracero, a 56-year-old resident of Santa Maria, guilty on five counts of lewd or lascivious acts upon a child under the age of 14, in violation of Penal Code § 288(a), one count of lewd or lascivious act upon a child under 14 with force or fear, in violation of Penal Code § 288(b)(1), and two counts of exhibiting harmful material to a minor, in violation of Penal Code § 288.2(a)(2).
The jury also found that the crimes involved a high degree of cruelty, viciousness, or callousness and that the defendant took advantage of a position of trust or confidence to commit the offenses.
Jane Doe’s journey to justice was marked by extraordinary bravery. Not only did she have to open up about her painful experiences to a child forensic interviewer, but she also faced the daunting task of testifying at a preliminary hearing before a judge. Her courage extended further as she stood before a courtroom filled with unfamiliar faces, recounting the terrible abuse she had to endure.
These challenging steps she took were crucial in paving the way for the outcome we’ve achieved. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Jane Doe for her immense bravery. Her strength in sharing her story is an inspiration to us all.
The Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Detectives, District Attorney Investigators, Victim Advocates, and Deputy District Attorney Sarah Barkley played pivotal roles in ensuring this successful prosecution. Their unwavering efforts helped the jury hold the Defendant accountable for his crimes. District Attorney John T. Savrnoch further extends his gratitude to the jury for their vital service in this challenging trial.
Sentencing is set for October 17, 2023, at 2:30 p.m., in Santa Barbara Superior Court Department 11 before the Honorable Judge Von Deroian.
The Defendant is currently in custody and faces a maximum sentence of 21 years and 4 months in state prison.
Jeez, seems like these cases are becoming more frequent