Former VA Janitorial Supervisor Convicted of Sexual Assault

Onofre Salas-Lozano, a 42-year-old former janitorial supervisor at the Palo Alto Veterans Affairs Hospital, was convicted by a federal jury of aggravated sexual abuse, sexual abuse by fear, and making false statements to investigators. The jury found that Salas-Lozano trapped a coworker in a patient exam room and forced her into sexual acts during a night shift on July 2, 2021, causing traumatic injuries to the victim. DNA evidence confirmed his presence at the scene, with his sperm found on the victim's underwear. Following a three-week trial, the jury determined he lied to the VA Office of Inspector General when he initially denied the assault. U.S. Attorney Ismail J. Ramsey emphasized that Salas-Lozano's actions exploited his supervisory position, and he now faces severe penalties, including a potential life sentence. Sentencing is pending for Salas-Lozano, who was indicted in April 2023.