Welcome to Arrest Stories. A sixty-five-year-old man who allegedly posed as an immigration attorney has been arrested in Tustin after police say he sexually assaulted a vulnerable client seeking legal help and then offered her money to stay quiet. Here's what may have happened.
According to official reports, Jose Bernal was working at a tax preparation business called BMB Multiservices when he allegedly presented himself as an immigration lawyer to a woman seeking legal assistance. Police say Bernal told the victim his services would cost fourteen thousand dollars before the encounter took a horrific turn.
The incident unfolded on November twelfth when the victim met with Bernal at his office. According to investigators, Bernal allegedly grabbed and raped the woman inside the office space. Following the assault, police say Bernal made disturbing attempts to silence his victim.
Officials report that Bernal offered the woman four hundred dollars and a discount on her legal fees if she agreed not to contact authorities. Law enforcement sources indicate he specifically told the victim he would provide a discount on her immigration case in exchange for keeping quiet about the assault.
The victim reported the incident to police on November twelfth, the same day the alleged assault occurred. Following her report, investigators launched a search for Bernal and posted a public bulletin seeking assistance in locating him.
Police eventually apprehended Bernal on Thursday in Tustin. During the investigation, authorities discovered the disturbing pattern of exploitation targeting vulnerable individuals seeking immigration help.
One official emphasized the particularly heinous nature of these allegations, stating: "They're coming already very vulnerable or feeling like, you know, they need help. And so when Jose takes advantage of that situation and victimizes them in a different manner, it's very saddening. And we're taking this, this crime very serious."
The case highlights concerns about predators exploiting immigrants who may be hesitant to contact authorities due to their legal status.
All suspects presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Do not take this report as factual, always verify facts. Thanks for watching Arrest Stories.