Deputies arrested a 71-year-old doctor from Apple Valley who they say was caught taking inappropriate video of underage girls at the Victorville Fairgrounds over the weekend.
The incident was first reported about 12:30 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 5, at the fairgrounds, 14800 7th Street, San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department officials said.
“A witness observed the suspect record two juvenile females who were standing at a food vendor truck,” according to a sheriff’s department statement.
Officials said the witnesses confronted the man, who ran away.
“The witness caught up with (the man) and held him until a deputy arrived,” the statement said. “The victims did not know the suspect, were unaware he was recording them, and were disturbed by the incident.”
“Through investigation, deputies determined Melvani recorded the victims for his own sexual pleasure and has recorded other females in the past,” the statement added.
Ashok Melvani was arrested on suspicion of child annoyance, county booking records show. He was released from custody the following day pending legal proceedings after posting bail.
Online records show Melvani worked as a doctor for Providence Medical Foundation in Victorville, specializing in family medicine. His profile and listing were removed from the organization’s website on Tuesday afternoon.
Melvani holds a valid medical license, according to state records.
Officials at Providence St. Mary Medical Center in Apple Valley responded to the arrest Tuesday evening.
“Providence St. Mary Medical Center is aware of the arrest of a physician affiliated with our hospital and will cooperate fully with the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department as needed,” according to a statement from the hospital. “As this is an ongoing investigation, we are unable to comment further at this time.”
Deputies said they suspected there may be additional unidentified victims and asked anyone with information to contact the Victorville Police Department at (760) 241-2911, or Sheriff’s Dispatch at (760) 956-5001.Tips may also be provided anonymously to the We-Tip hotline at (800) 782-7463.
(This story has been updated with additional information.)
This article originally appeared on Victorville Daily Press: Doctor, 71, accused of taking inappropriate video of girls at Victorville Fairgrounds
Reporting by Brian Day, Victorville Daily Press / Victorville Daily Press
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