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Detectives with the Shasta County Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Unit have been investigating an alleged sexual assault case involving a female victim since December of 2022. On March 1st, 2023, detectives served a search warrant at the suspect’s residence, 49-year-old Lester Paul Elsey of Redding, where numerous firearms, ammunition, and evidence corroborating the sexual assault allegation were found.
During the investigation, detectives discovered that there was a second female victim who was also molested by Elsey. The second victim was 13 years old at the time of the incident. Detectives conducted a forensic interview with the initial victim and learned that she had been molested by Elsey at a residence located on the 19000 block of Collyer Drive, Redding, CA in 2021 when she was 15 years old.
Elsey is a convicted felon, making it illegal for him to possess firearms and ammunition. He was transported to the Major Crimes Unit for further interview and was later arrested and booked into the Shasta County Jail. Elsey’s bail is set at $100,000 and his arraignment was scheduled for Friday, March 3rd, 2023, at 1:30 PM at the Shasta County Superior Court.
Elsey has been charged with 288(A) PC – Lewd or Lascivious acts with a child under 14 years old, 288(C)(1) PC – Lewd or Lascivious acts with a child 14 or 15 years old, 29800(A)(1) PC – Felon in possession of a Firearm & 30305(A)(1) PC – Felon in possession of Ammunition. The names of the victims are being withheld due to the nature of the charges and because of their ages.
The Shasta County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with information regarding this investigation to contact the Major Crimes Unit at (530) 245-6135 or by email, mcu@co.shasta.ca.us. The office also thanks the Children’s Legacy Center for their assistance in this investigation.
The charges against Elsey are mere allegations, and all defendants are presumed innocent pending prosecution. The investigation highlights the importance of timely reporting of sexual assault cases and the need for continued vigilance in preventing such crimes. The Shasta County Sheriff’s Office is committed to pursuing justice for the victims of sexual assault and ensuring the safety and security of the community.
