SAN JOSE, California. – Embattled Saint Joseph Councilman Omar Torres was arrested Tuesday on charges related to child sexual abuse.

Torres’ attorney, Nelson McElmurry, told KTVU that his client had his office submit a letter of resignation on Tuesday and that, coincidentally, the arrest occurred a few hours later.

He San Jose Police Department He confirmed Torres’ arrest on Tuesday, only saying it was related to “an ongoing investigation for crimes involving lewd acts with a child.”

San Jose Police Chief and Mayor Matt Mahan held a press conference Wednesday afternoon, detailing the allegations and next steps for Torres’ city council seat.

KTVU obtained the criminal complaint, which included three felony charges related to incidents of sexual abuse that allegedly occurred between 1990 and 1999.

The San Jose police chief said the alleged crimes occurred when both Torres and the victim were minors. The alleged crimes continued after Torres reached adulthood and the victim was still a minor, the chief said.

According to San Jose police, the victim reported to authorities on Monday. Police say they worked “tirelessly” to investigate and corroborate the allegations.

San Jose Mayor Mahan also spoke Wednesday, saying “the allegations are every parent’s worst nightmare.”

The accusations against Torres are “the most serious that can be imagined,” he added.

Mahan said he believes the victim came forward Monday after seeing the progress in the case against Torres and felt comfortable doing so.

As for Torres’ seat on the San Jose District 3 council, Mahan said the seat will be vacant as of Nov. 27.

At an upcoming city council meeting, members will vote on the process for a replacement, the mayor said. Next steps may include a temporary appointment by the council or a special election.

Mahan said the earliest San Jose would likely have a new council member would be early 2025.

“Either path will take some time,” Mahan said.

Torres is being held in the Santa Clara County Main Jail without bond. He will be arraigned Wednesday afternoon.

Calls for Torres’ resignation have increased in recent weeks after it was revealed that Torres is being investigated by the SJPD for sexual crimes against children. The councilor initially said these were false accusations.

Neighbors have launched a petition to remove Torres since many in the community have said enough is enough and that he is no longer fit to serve. But the impeachment process could take months and requires signatures.

Torres’ lawyer had previously said that the private communication between Torres and another man was simply sexual fantasy and role play and that his client was a victim of extortion.

Immediately after Torres’ arrest on election night, Mahan reacted to the news.

“I am completely horrified and angry at the possibility that, contrary to his claims that this is simply scandalous fantasies and role-playing, he may actually have harmed children and I must acknowledge that there is an ongoing investigation and that he has been granted due process by our laws,” Mahan said. “But I am completely disgusted by this turn of events and am confident that our police department, our district attorney and their teams will ensure that justice is served.”

Councilman Bien Doan, Torres’ colleague, said the police investigation was thorough and the resignation came after Torres’ arrest.

“This action marks a crucial step toward accountability and I am pleased that he has finally resigned for the benefit of the people of District 3,” Doan said. “This is a crucial moment for our city. We must work together to restore trust in our city council and ensure that the actions of one individual do not eclipse the collective responsibility we have for our communities. The people of our city deserve leaders who are committed with transparency, integrity and service.”

Doan previously told KTVU he wants to change the city charter so the city council has the power to expel members. Before the arrest and resignation, they felt helpless. They hoped Torres would resign under pressure.

Since the investigation became known, Torres has remained silent and has been largely absent from city council meetings. Last month, it was indeed removed from their appointed positions since his colleagues lost confidence in him. At one point, the mayor Matt Mahan He said Torres was “holding his seat hostage” and was denying representation to 100,000 San Jose residents.

In a statement, Councilman Peter Ortiz said he was “horrified” by “the actions that led to his arrest.”

“Child abuse is a horrific crime that causes lasting harm to victims and their families, and it is crucial that we prioritize the well-being and justice of those affected by such heinous acts,” Ortiz said. “I sincerely hope that the victims receive the support they need to heal and that justice is served for their suffering. I am confident that our Police Department will diligently seek justice and ensure that Torres is held accountable for his misconduct.