Lake Charles, Louisiana - The Calcasieu Parish Sheriff's Office has arrested a Lake Charles couple following allegations of child sexual abuse involving multiple victims, including family members under the age of 12.
According to authorities, Special Victims Unit detectives began their investigation on March 23 after receiving information about alleged rape incidents. During initial inquiries, investigators spoke with a complainant who reported that Lova W. Moreno, 49, of Lake Charles had disclosed that her husband, Jared E. Moreno, 47, of Lake Charles had been molesting two young family members who were under the age of 12.
The complainant, also a family member, revealed that when she was approximately 5 years old, Jared Moreno had allegedly molested her as well.
Investigators discovered that Lova Moreno, identified as a mandated reporter—someone legally required to report suspected child abuse due to their profession—failed to notify law enforcement after learning about the alleged sexual abuse. Authorities state that she took steps that hindered the investigation, including allowing the children to remain in Jared Moreno's presence after becoming aware of the abuse allegations.
Following further investigation, both suspects were arrested on March 26 and booked into the Calcasieu Correctional Center.
Jared Moreno faces charges of three counts of first-degree rape and aggravated rape. Judge Tony Fazzio set his bond at $1 million.
Lova Moreno was charged with failure to report the commission of certain felonies. Her bond was set at $30,000 by Judge Fazzio.
CPSO SVU Detective Lisa Ivey is leading the investigation.
In Louisiana, mandated reporters include professionals such as teachers, health care providers, mental health professionals, and others who work directly with children and are legally obligated to report suspected abuse or neglect to authorities.
An arrest is an indication that probable cause exists to believe the subject was involved in the offense alleged. All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty.