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Wednesday, October 17, 2007                                                                                       View Comments

Oregon Pastor Arrested for Sexually Abusing 8 Women

(PORTLAND, Ore. ) - Portland Police Sexual Assault Detectives have arrested a 38-year-old pastor who allegedly sexually abused eight women associated with his church.

Portland police spokesman Brian Schmautz says pastor Sergio Alvarizares was arrested Monday at his home in Ridgefield, Washington, and is being held on on one count of Rape in the First Degree, two counts of Attempted Rape in the First Degree and ten counts of Sex Abuse in the First Degree, after a two week investigation involving the victims associated with the church known as -- “Father’s House” -- located at 1725 Northeast Alberta Street.

The investigation began on September 30th, when Northeast Precinct officers were called to the Father’s House on a disturbance call. Officers arrived and learned that several members of the church were arguing with the suspect about allegations of improper sexual contact Schmautz said.

Later that night six women, who did not live in Portland, called the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office to report a sexual assault. Schmautz said because the crimes occurred in Portland, the Portland Police Bureau Sexual Assault Detail conducted the investigation.

During the investigation, detectives identified two additional victims. Evidence was presented to a Multnomah County Grand Jury who returned an indictment.

The church, Father’s House, primarily focuses on serving Portland’s Spanish speaking population. The suspect also has a web site located at www.casadelpadre.com.

Detectives are currently seeking anyone with additional information in this ongoing investigation.

Anyone with information is asked to call Porltand police detective Jeff Sharp at (503) 823-0453.

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