A Garden Grove police officer was arrested and placed on administrative leave amid an investigation into alleged inappropriate interactions with a juvenile member of the department's Explorer program. Officer Roberto Machuca, 32, was arrested on June 27 and booked into the Orange County Jail, according to authorities. He was released the following day, jail records show.
The investigation was initiated after authorities were notified of the alleged interaction on June 26, according to a news release from the Garden Grove Police Department. The juvenile involved was participating in the department's Explorer program, which is designed for young people interested in law enforcement.
Authorities have declined to release additional details about the nature of the alleged interaction but confirmed they are working closely with the Orange County District Attorney's Office. The case will be forwarded to prosecutors once the investigation is complete.
Machuca has been with the department for several years and was relieved of his duties pending the outcome of the probe. Police emphasized that the safety and security of youth volunteers remains a top priority.
The investigation remains ongoing, and no further information is being released at this time.