The stream of accusations against former San Diego police officer Anthony Arevalos has come to an end, as witnesses in the ex-cop’s defense take the stand in the final days of his case.
The prosecution rested Monday in Arevalos’ trial, who is accused of eliciting sexual favors from women he pulled over while on duty. Some of the women who testified claim he groped them and sexually assaulted them after pulling them over on suspicion of DUI last year.
When the defense presents their witnesses, Arevalos will not take the stand. Instead, an expert will discuss the effects that alcohol has on a person’s memory, as evidence in the case shows that many of the women were under the influence of alcohol.
Many of the testimonies have portrayed Arevalos as "creepy" and describe encounters with him in which they claim he touched them inappropriately.
One woman claimed in her testimony that Arevalos followed her into a public restroom and told her to show him her breasts. She then stated that Arevalos touched her inappropriately. That incident led to the charges currently against him.
Testimony is expected to end Wednesday. There will be no hearing Tuesday.
Arevalos has pleaded not guilty to 21 felony counts. If convicted, he faces 19 years in prison.
