Mayor: Sexual assault allegations false
Joe Gomez says he will defend himself against accusation
BARSTOW -- A tearful Mayor Joe Gomez declared his innocence before the City Council Monday night and said he will defend himself against recent allegations of sexual assault.
Speaking from the podium at the meeting, rather than from his seat on the City Council, Gomez asked the citizens of Barstow to allow the investigation to run its course.
"I intend to defend myself vigorously against this false allegation," he said.
Gomez is being investigated by the sheriff's department for sexual battery claims regarding an incident that allegedly took place in the unincorporated area of Barstow on Dec. 18.
The sheriff¹s department submitted its findings to the San Bernardino County District Attorney¹s office Jan. 25. Charges against Gomez have not been filed as of Monday afternoon, according to Susan Mickey, a DA spokesperson.
Gomez's daughter and sister also spoke on his behalf during the comments period at the meeting.
"He is the most honorable man I know," Latecia Miller, Gomez's daughter, said, adding she and her family had been harassed after the allegations were made public. "I am proud to call him my dad. … My father has always had one thought -- that is to serve the community and its citizens with passion and pride."
Vanessa Gomez-Lee, Gomez's sister, defended Gomez and criticized those who were quick to believe the worst.
"I say to the people who are quick to judge and spread rumors, shame on you," she said.
Las Vegas-based investigator Robert Lawson was at the meeting. He said he was investigating the sexual assault claims on Gomez's behalf.
Lawson had previously been before City Council in December, speaking on behalf of Anthony Yslas, who had been a commissioner on the Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Commission, against a hostile workplace complaint lodged against Yslas by city employee Terri Peralta. The council voted 4-0 to remove Yslas from the commission. Gomez was not at that meeting.
Gomez also explained that he decided to remain silent last week to allow the authorities to investigate the matter. He said that on advice on his attorney, he would not be making any further public comments about the allegations.
