Child Molester Arrested, Additional Victims Sought

"Child Molester Arrested, Additional Victims Sought "
 

Los Angeles: 54 year-old Photographer Robert Villard surrendered on November 27, 2001, after Los Angeles Deputy City Attorney Michele Anderson, Special Enforcement Unit, filed criminal charges against Villard. The criminal filing included six counts of the production and possession of child pornography, as well as the sexual exploitation of a child. A warrant was issued for Villard’s arrest and bail set at $100,000.00, later reduced to $50,000.00 at the arraignment.
Over the last 23 years, Villard has occasionally been brought to the attention of the Los Angeles Police Department’s Sexually Exploited Child Unit, for similar activities with photography and minor aged boys.
In January 2001, the Oceanside Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) conducted an investigation that involved allegations of Lewd Acts With Children by associates of the Luna Bay Wear Company based in Oceanside. That investigation led to allegations of Crimes Against Children involving Villard at his Sherman Oaks apartment. Searches of Villard’s residence by Sexual Assault Felony Enforcement (SAFE) Team, a Regional taskforce comprised of various law enforcement agencies led by the FBI and LAPD detectives, produced thousands of photographs of young boys in skimpy bathing suits posed in sexually suggestive positions. Villard is known to have traveled outside of the United States to photograph young boys. Villard’s next court date is scheduled for December 11, 2001 in Division 40.
Detectives are seeking the public’s assistance in locating other young boys who have been photographed or victimized by Villard. Anyone with information regarding this investigation is encouraged to call LAPD’s Sexually Exploited Child Unit at 213-485-2883 during the week days. On weekends and during off-hours, call the 24-hour toll free number at Detective Information Desk, 1-877-LAWFULL (1-877-529-3855).
A booking photograph of Villard is available at Media Relations Section. This press release was prepared by Public Information Officer Grace Brady, Media Relations Section, 213-485-3586.