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West Sacramento Cop Accused Of Kidnapping, Sexually Assaulting Women While On Duty

WEST SACRAMENTO, Calif. (CBS13) - A West Sacramento police officer has been arrested on multiple sexual assault and kidnapping charges. Police say he committed the crimes while on duty.

Sergio Alvarez, 37, of West Sacramento is accused of assaulting six females ranging in age from 20 to 47 years old who frequented the area near West Capitol Avenue, according West Sacramento Police Department spokesperson Lt. Tod Sockman. Alvarez allegedly used his position as an officer to stop the women and assault them -- some more than once.

Police say Alvarez worked solo on the graveyard shift for 5 years.

The allegations were brought to the attention of a uniformed officer on Sept. 24, 2012 and Alvarez was immediately placed on administrative leave.

West Sacramento police along with help from Sacramento police conducted an investigation, which was then handed over to the Yolo County D.A.'s Office for review. A grand jury was convened and handed down an indictment. Alvarez was fired and is now in the Yolo County Jail with bail set at $26.3 million.

"The victimization of vulnerable people is despicable, but the fact that these crimes were apparently committed by a police officer under the color of authority is reprehensible. The actions of one person should in no way reflect upon the outstanding performance and integrity of the men and women of the Department. I am proud of the way our officers carried out their duties in this investigation and every day in the protection of the community," said West Sacramento Police Chief Dan Drummond.

Alvarez's former neighbors say they are beyond shocked. Married with three children, Alvarez grew up in West Sacramento and attended River City High School.

Alvarez had been with the department since 2007. He faces 35 charges, including multiple counts of sodomy, rape, oral copulation and kidnapping.

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