KARATE TEACHER ARRESTED FOR CHILD MOLESTATION
August 13, 2010 (San Diego’s East County) – Eric Protas, 38, of La Mesa was arrested yesterday on numerous counts of child molestation involving a 13-year-old karate student. Protas is the owner and a karate instructor at the Allied Gardens School of Martial Arts, 5154 Waring Road in San Diego.
According to La Mesa Police, Protas repeatedly sexually abused the boy over a one-year period. Police are continuing the investigation, working on developing leads on any other potential victims.
Protas has been booked into San Diego County Jail on the following charges:
• 288a(c)(1) PC – Oral Copulation w/ a Minor Under 14 where suspect is over 10 years older
• 286(c)(1) PC – Sodomy w/ a Minor Under 14 where the suspect is over 10 years older
• 288a(b)(2) PC – Oral Copulation w/ a Minor Under 16
• 286(b)(2) PC – Sodomy w/ a Minor Under 16
Protas is being held on a $1,000,000.00 bail.
If you have any information on this case, please call the Detective Jason Sieckman at (619) 667-1439. This investigation is continuing.
You may also call Crime Stoppers’ anonymous toll-free tip line (888) 580-TIPS (or www.sdcrimestoppers.com). You can remain anonymous, and be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000 for information leading to an arrest in this case.