Former San Jose Councilman Omar Torres Pleads No Contest to Child Sex Abuse Charges

Omar Torres, a former San Jose City Councilman, pleaded no contest to three felony charges of child molestation dating back to the 1990s. Initially arrested in November 2024, Torres faced accusations of sexually assaulting a minor starting when the victim was just four years old. His plea comes on the same day as a special election to fill his vacant District 3 seat, which he resigned just hours before his arrest. Torres, who has been held without bail, faces a potential prison sentence of up to 24 years and lifetime registration as a sex offender. The Santa Clara County District Attorney emphasized the tragedy of having an elected official commit such acts against vulnerable children. Sentencing has yet to be scheduled, but Torres is expected to return to court on May 29.