Choir Director Accused of Sexual Abuse of 12-Year-Old Misses Court Date
OGDEN, UTAH – July 20, 2015 (Gephardt Daily) – A no-bail bench warrant was issued Monday for Jose Manuel Zamarripa, the 27-year-old church choir director who is accused of sexually assaulting of a 12-year-old girl that attended his church.
Zamarripa was arrested by detectives on June 17 and charged with first degree felony aggravated sex abuse of a child, second degree felony sexual exploitation of a minor and third degree felony dealing harmful materials to a minor. He was released after posting $40K in bail on June 22.
It is alleged that Zamarripa met the victim at the Rios de Agua Viva church on Grant Avenue in Ogden, that her family attends. During the time the victim’s family attended the church Zamarripa was working at the church as the choir director.
Investigators say the relationship started while the victim was participating in church activities with Zamarripa, and their involvement together continued outside of the church.
Zamarripa allegedly exchanged sexually explicit notes and text messages as well as sent nude photos to the victim. It is also believed Zamarripa became sexually involved with the girl at a home in Washington Terrace.
In the State of Utah, any type of sexual activity with a child under the age of 14 is considered a crime, regardless if the act was consensual or not. The enhancement to aggravated was due to the child’s age.
Anyone with information related the case, or might know the whereabouts of Zamarripa are encouraged to contact the Sheriff’s Office number at (801) 778-6631.
