Van Nuys - On Saturday, March 10, 2001, detectives from the Los Angeles Police Department's Juvenile Division, Sexually Exploited Child Unit, booked 35-year-old Ray Darius Love for Child Molestation.

Early Saturday morning, a pastor took a young man to LAPD’s Van Nuys Station and reported that the male had been sexually abused by Mr. Love for several years. Detectives from Van Nuys and the Sexually Exploited Child Unit conducted an initial investigation and determined that Love was on probation for a 1998 conviction of possessing child pornography and was registered as a sex offender as a result of that conviction.

Mr. Love was taken into custody as he drove away from his residence in the area of Victory Boulevard and Coldwater Canyon in Van Nuys. Following his arrest, a search was conducted of his car and residence. As a result, evidence was discovered that corroborated the victim’s statements. Also discovered was information that lead to additional victims of child molestation. Love was booked at Van Nuys Jail on felony child molestation charges.

On Tuesday, March 13, 2001, detectives presented the initial case, consisting of three victims ranging in ages from 12 to 16 when the crimes occurred, to the Office of the Los Angeles County District Attorney for filing consideration. The District Attorney filed 10 felony counts of child molestation and possession of child pornography. Bail was set at $490,000. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for the end of March in Van Nuys.

For several years, Mr. Love has been involved with young people in the capacity of a bandleader, church youth choir assistant, and youth hockey coach throughout the Los Angeles area.

Detectives with Juvenile Division, Sexually Exploited Child Unit, are conducting an extensive investigation. They are requesting assistance from anyone who has information on additional victims. Of particular interest are boys between the ages of 12 and 17 who may have visited Love at his residence for the last several years. The Sexually Exploited Child Unit investigators can be reached at 213-485-2883 or during non-business hours, please call 213-485-2504.

Booking photos of Ray Darius Love are available to the media at Media Relations Section, 150 N. Los Angeles Street, Los Angeles, California, Rm. 626, 213 485-3586. Interviews can also be obtained from Captain C. Beck or Lieutenant D. Mulrenin at 213-485-2801.

This press release was prepared by Officer Hayley Smith, Media Relations Section, 213-485-3586.