Suspect in child sex abuse cases waives hearing

The Bakersfield Californian

A 22-year-old man waived his right Monday to a preliminary hearing on more than 20 charges of child abuse against foster children in his parent's home and another foster home.

Justin Erbacher is accused of molesting five girls, all under the age of 14, over nearly five years, according to court records.

After Erbacher waived his right to a preliminary hearing, Judge James Stuart found there was enough evidence to hold him over for trial.

Erbacher was ordered to return to court July 14 for arraignment.

The sexual abuse came to light after one of the alleged victims grew so afraid she threatened to commit suicide, according to court records and Bakersfield police.

Erbacher was arrested April 4.

A couple of weeks later on April 20, Erbacher's father, Stephan, 44, committed suicide as police were coming to his house to arrest him on suspicion of child sexual abuse.

A 13-year-old girl -- also one of the alleged victims -- was arrested on 15 felony counts of sexual assault. Her name was never released, police say, because she is a minor.