The California Department of Justice conducted forensic and DNA testing in support of the investigation

STANISLAUS COUNTY – On July 19, 2024, The Stanislaus County District Attorney’s Office announced that Ivan Garcia Jr., 26, of Turlock, was convicted by a jury of forcible rape.

The conviction relates to a sexual assault that occurred on June 13, 2020 in Turlock. On that date, Garcia entered an apartment where the victim was sleeping in a bedroom. At some point, Garcia entered the bedroom and assaulted the victim. After the sexual assault, Garcia fled. Detectives with the Turlock Police Department identified the suspect and apprehended him. DNA connected Garcia to the rape.

Garcia is scheduled to be sentenced on September 4, 2024. He is facing a maximum prison term of eight years and will have to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life.

Asst. Deputy District Attorney Dannica Molina prosecuted this case on behalf of the People.  The District Attorney’s Victim Services Unit provided assistance to the victim. The California Department of Justice conducted forensic and DNA testing in support of the investigation. 

“We very much appreciate the work and contributions made by California Department of Justice criminalists to assist investigators and prosecutors in criminal cases,” said California Statewide Law Enforcement Association (CSLEA) President Alan Barcelona.  “Their work leads provides many answers  in criminal justice proceedings.”