After a two-year case, Samuel Nunez, a well-known community leader and founder of the now-dissolved Stockton nonprofit Fathers and Families of San Joaquin, was found guilty of child molestation on Wednesday.
Nunez's legal troubles began in May 2021 when he was stopped by Manteca Police. Investigations into his child sex crimes had commenced the previous month. According to the San Joaquin County District Attorney's Office, Nunez molested a child between 2001 and 2005 when the victim was aged eight to twelve. He admitted to all aggravating factors related to the charges.
Nunez, 38, is due back in court on July 28 for sentencing. He faces a maximum prison term of 41 years.
In 2006, Nunez founded the nonprofit Fathers and Families of San Joaquin, an organization dedicated to providing family counseling to those affected by violence and guidance for at-risk youth. However, the nonprofit ceased operations in 2021 following Nunez's arrest. Nunez's community work was highlighted in an HBO documentary in 2020 featuring the story of former Stockton Mayor Michael Tubbs.
San Joaquin County District Attorney Ron Frietas praised the efforts of the Deputy District Attorney and stated, "No matter who you know, or what connections you may have, no one is above the law."