Acting Coach Arrested for Child Molestation

 
Los Angeles: On March 2, 2005, around 9:45 a.m., detectives from the Los Angeles Police Department’s (LAPD) Registration, Enforcement, and Compliance Team (REACT), Van Nuys Area, arrested 57-year-old Robert David Villard, a talent manager and acting coach for young, aspiring actors. The arrest took place without incident at the Van Nuys police station. Villard was arrested on a felony warrant charging him with nine counts of violating Penal Code § 288(a) (Lewd Acts with a Child Under 14).
The LAPD’s Sexually Exploited Child Unit (SECU), Juvenile Division, is handling the current investigation that began in September 2004, when a 17-year-old boy reported that Villard had molested him when the boy was 13 years old. That investigation culminated in today’s arrest.
Villard’s bail has been set at $900,000. His arraignment is scheduled for March 3, 2005.
Because of Villard’s contact with young people, investigators believe there may be more victims. Anyone having any information regarding Villard is encouraged to contact the Sexually Exploited Child Unit at 213-485-2883. On weekends and during off-hours, please call the 24-hour toll free number at the Detective Information Desk at 1-877-LAWFULL, 1-877-529-3855.
A photograph of Villard is available at Media Relations Section. For further information, please contact Captain Sharyn Buck, Commanding Officer, Juvenile Division at 213-485-2801.
This news release was prepared by the Los Angeles Police Department’s Media Relations Section, which can be reached at 213-485-3586.