A 20-year-old Hollister resident was arrested on misdemeanor
charges stemming from a suspected, yearlong relationship with a
girl who is now age 14.
Hollister – A 20-year-old Hollister resident was arrested on misdemeanor charges stemming from a suspected, yearlong relationship with a girl who is now age 14.
The San Benito County Sheriff’s Office on Tuesday arrested Daniel Lemmerman on suspicion of annoying or molesting a person younger than 18 years old and contributing to the delinquency of a minor, both misdemeanors, Lt. Roy Iler said.
Detectives on Tuesday confiscated Lemmerman’s personal computer from his home and a computer at his workplace, the Weekend Pinnacle newspaper office. Lemmerman is a part-time sports writer for the Weekend Pinnacle. Lemmerman and the girl communicated through the Web site Myspace.com and on cell phones, expressing feelings for each other, Iler said.
Authorities suspect the two hugged and kissed each other, Iler said. He said authorities believe the two did not have sexual intercourse.
On Wednesday, Weekend Pinnacle Publisher Mark Paxton expressed shock and disappointment.
“While anyone is innocent until proven guilty, he has been suspended pending resolution of these allegations,” Paxton said.
An outside agency will analyze both confiscated computers, searching for communications and any material that might elevate potential charges against Lemmerman, Iler said. Information also has been requested from Myspace, Iler said.
The sheriff’s office suspects Lemmerman met the then-13-year-old girl at church, Iler said.
“He’s a volunteer facilitator at a local church,” Iler said. “He helps oversee the confirmation process of local youth.”
A “concerned citizen” approached the San Benito County District Attorney’s Office, which then contacted the sheriff’s office, Iler said.
The sheriff’s office interviewed both the victim and Lemmerman on Tuesday, deputies said. When questioned, Lemmerman confirmed the relationship existed, Iler said.
Lemmerman was released Tuesday from the San Benito County Jail on $2,000 bail.
Charges against Lemmerman are pending the district attorney’s review of the sheriff’s investigation.
