Trial Scheduled in Molestation Case
A Lynwood man pleaded not guilty to charges he molested two girls at a Van Nuys supermarket, the city attorney’s office said Thursday.
Jorge Flores, 36, was arrested Monday and charged with two counts each of child molestation and sexual battery.
On Wednesday, Van Nuys Municipal Judge Karen Nudell ordered Flores to stand trial April 9.
Flores, who police said is homeless, initially was held in lieu of $100,000 bail. The judge lowered it to $50,000.
The girls, ages 11 and 7, were shopping at 3:30 p.m. Monday in the Ralphs grocery store at 15230 Vanowen St. when Flores allegedly approached the older girl from behind and began to rub against her, authorities said.
After she turned around and saw him, Flores allegedly moved toward the 7-year-old and began to touch her, police said.
The girls ran and alerted store employees. Flores fled the store, removing some clothing to try to change his appearance and avoid being identified, police said.
However, officers were able to apprehend Flores a few blocks from the store with help from a police helicopter.
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