80-year-old SLO man who sexually abused children is sentenced to life in prison
An 80-year-old San Luis Obispo County man who sexually abused multiple children at his wife’s unlicensed daycare received a life sentence on Monday.
On July 17, Pablo ReynaEsparza pleaded guilty to two felonies of committing lewd acts on a child under the age of 14, admitting to two special allegations subjecting him to a sentence of 50 years to life, according to a news release from the District Attorney’s Office.
“Mr. ReynaEsparza’s selfish and predatory actions in taking advantage of multiple children are the reason he has lost his freedom,” Deputy District Attorney Kristin Barnard said at his sentencing.
The crimes occurred between 2016 and 2018 at an unlicensed daycare run by the defendant’s wife at their home in San Luis Obispo, the news release said. The young survivors were between 5 and 11 years old when the crimes occurred. Four child victims were listed under pseudonyms in the charging documents.
“We are very proud of these young survivors for their remarkable courage in reporting these horrible crimes which enabled us to bring ReynaEsparza to justice,” said District Attorney Dan Dow. “This substantial prison sentence for an 80-year-old sexual predator should ensure he will never victimize another child.”
As part of the sentence, ReynaEsparza will be required to register as a sex offender for life.
The DA’s Office urges all parents looking for childcare to verify credentials and proper licensing at the California Department of Social Services Community Care Licensing Division.
This story was originally published February 10, 2025 at 5:32 PM.
