On March 9, 2010, the Honorable Judge Kathryn Montejano sentenced 40-year-old Rene Villareal, Jr. of Dinuba to 36 years in prison for 16 counts of child molestation. On February 18, 2010, the defendant entered a no contest plea to 16 counts of engaging in lewd and lascivious acts with a child. The two victims—each female family members—were molested over a period of approximately ten years.

The defendant entered a plea to violent felonies so he will be required to serve at least 85% of his time in prison. He was ordered to pay a $10,000 restitution fine and register as a sex offender upon release from prison.

The case was investigated by Detective Eric Trevino of Dinuba Police Department and District Attorney Investigator Lindy Gligorijevic. Deputy District Attorney Mikki Verissimo prosecuted the case.

Contact Person: Shani D. Jenkins, Assistant District Attorney (559) 733-6411.