LOS ANGELES, CA – Authorities in Ventura County are investigating a disturbing incident involving a 55-year-old man accused of committing lewd acts inside the girls’ locker room of Newbury Park High School. The man, identified as James Arthur Silver, was taken into custody but has since been released pending a court appearance scheduled for March.
The incident occurred on January 13 and was reported by a 15-year-old student who resides in Thousand Oaks. According to a statement released by the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office, the girl encountered the man in the locker room, where he engaged in an unspecified “lewd act in her presence.”
Investigators from the East County Sexual Assault Unit immediately launched an inquiry in collaboration with school administrators at the campus located at 456 Reino Road, Newbury Park. Through their efforts, law enforcement was able to identify Silver as the suspect.
The circumstances under which Silver was able to gain access to the girls’ locker room remain unclear. Authorities have not disclosed whether he has any connection to the school, such as being a staff member, parent, or trespasser.
Silver was booked into the Ventura County East Sheriff’s Jail following his arrest but was later released. The nature of his release and any related conditions have not been detailed by officials.
Given the sensitive nature of the case, detectives suspect there may be additional victims or witnesses who have yet to come forward. They have encouraged anyone with relevant information to contact Sergeant Ray Dominguez of the Sheriff’s East County Sexual Assault Unit at 805-371-8392.
For those wishing to remain anonymous, tips can also be submitted via the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers Hotline at 800-222-8477 or online at www.lacrimestoppers.org. This ongoing investigation underscores the importance of ensuring school safety and diligence in protecting students from such incidents.
