68-year-old Lawrence Parish of Fullerton, California, pled guilty in San Joaquin County to felony charges involving the sexual abuse of two minor victims over several decades. Parish will serve a sentence of 15 years to life in prison and is mandated to register as a lifetime sex offender.

Parish’s plea included admissions to violating Penal Code 288.7(b), involving the abuse of a four-year-old victim between December 2023 and January 2024, and Penal Code 288(a), involving abuse of a second victim between the ages of 8 and 10, from 2004 to 2006.

District Attorney Ron Freitas issued a firm statement on the case: “The crimes committed by Lawrence Parish are among the most reprehensible and unforgivable violations of trust and innocence. Today’s plea and the life sentence it ensures serve as a strong message: those who prey on our community’s most vulnerable will be met with the full force of the law and my Office. While no sentence can undo the trauma inflicted on these children and their families, we stand undaunted in our commitment to bring predators like Parish to justice and to stand with victims every step of the way. Let there be no doubt—this office will always prioritize the safety and dignity of our children and pursue justice without hesitation.”

The San Joaquin County District Attorney’s Office commends Deputy District Attorney Victor Bachand and his team for their commitment and professionalism in securing this plea. Their dedication, along with the investigative efforts of the Stockton Police Department and Detective Keiser, and the cooperation of the Orange County District Attorney’s Office, was instrumental in bringing Lawrence Parish to justice. This case exemplifies the resolve of law enforcement agencies to pursue justice for survivors, regardless of the passage of time or complexity of jurisdiction.

His sentencing is scheduled for January 13, 2025, at 1:30 p.m. in Department 9B before Judge Villapudua, during which time victim impact statements will be presented.