by Ventura County, CA — A Fillmore man has been found guilty of repeatedly molesting two young relatives over several years, following a jury trial that prosecutors say highlighted the extraordinary courage of the young victims who came forward despite years of trauma and fear.
Jury Convicts Fillmore Man in Long-Term Child Abuse Case
According to the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office, Jose Zavala, 40, was convicted on four felony counts related to the sexual abuse of two children. The charges include three counts of lewd acts upon a child and one count of continuous sexual abuse.
Prosecutors said the verdict also included special allegations that Zavala abused a position of trust and that both victims were particularly vulnerable due to their age and relationship to him. The jury’s decision followed several days of testimony, during which the two victims described years of repeated abuse that occurred inside a family environment where they should have felt safe.
Years of Abuse Hidden Behind Family Walls
Authorities said the abuse took place between 2019 and 2022, beginning when one victim was as young as six years old and the other was ten. Zavala allegedly used his familial relationship to gain the trust of the children and access to them on a regular basis.
The assaults reportedly continued for several years before the victims gathered the strength to tell an adult about what had happened. In 2023, both victims disclosed the abuse to mandated reporters, who are individuals legally required to report suspected child abuse — such as teachers, medical professionals, or counselors. Their statements immediately prompted an investigation by law enforcement and led to Zavala’s arrest and prosecution.
Investigators from the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office and the District Attorney’s Office worked together to build the case, collecting statements, forensic evidence, and digital records to support the victims’ accounts. Prosecutors emphasized that the abuse had long-lasting psychological impacts on both children, who are now receiving counseling and family support services.
Prosecutors Praise Victims’ Bravery and Commitment to Justice
Senior Deputy District Attorney Michael Kern, who prosecuted the case as part of the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office Sexual Assault Unit, commended the victims for their courage in taking the stand and facing their abuser in court.
“The two young victims in this case showed exceptional courage by testifying in open court and confronting the person who harmed them,” Kern said. “Their strength made this verdict possible and reinforces that Ventura County will not tolerate crimes of this nature.”
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Prosecutors said cases like this one underscore the importance of early intervention and open communication between children and trusted adults. They also highlighted that even when years have passed, survivors can still come forward to seek justice.
Sentencing and Possible Life Term
Zavala is scheduled to be sentenced on December 16 at 9 a.m. and faces a maximum sentence of 100 years to life in state prison. Prosecutors said they will argue for a lengthy prison term given the severity and duration of the crimes, the young age of the victims, and Zavala’s betrayal of familial trust.
Once sentenced, Zavala will be required to register as a sex offender for life under California law. The court is also expected to issue a no-contact order, preventing him from contacting the victims or their families.
Ventura County’s Ongoing Commitment to Protecting Children
The Ventura County District Attorney’s Office emphasized that this conviction reflects their continued commitment to protecting vulnerable victims and ensuring that offenders are held fully accountable.
Officials encouraged anyone who suspects child abuse to report it immediately by contacting local law enforcement or child protective services. They also reminded residents that early reporting can save lives and prevent future abuse.
Organizations across the county — including child advocacy centers and trauma recovery programs — offer free, confidential support for victims and families dealing with abuse.
“We want victims to know that they are not alone,” Kern added. “There are trained professionals ready to help, and justice is possible, no matter how long it takes.”
As Ventura County authorities continue their efforts to protect children and prosecute abusers, the bravery shown by these two young victims serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience that can emerge even from deep pain.
Do you believe enough is being done to protect children from abuse within families? Share your thoughts and join the discussion at mikeandjonpodcast.com.
