Foster Parent Who Took in 90 Children Faces Abuse Charges as Police Search for More Affected Persons
Police are investigating whether more children were involved in alleged sexual abuse by a California foster parent who raised some 90 children over the years.
The suspect was identified as Edward Sepulveda, 68, of Moreno Valley. The alleged abuse took place from 1998 to at least 2013, when children were residing at a Riverside home and elsewhere in Moreno Valley, Riverside police said.
An adult made a disclosure of alleged childhood abuse in September 2025, which prompted the investigation. Police said as detectives looked into the case, they found three other people who were affected.
Some of the people who were allegedly affected were less than 10 years old when the incidents were reported.
The case has brought serious concerns to light about child protection, as Sepulveda was placed with children via the foster care system, where children rely on adults and institutions for safety, stability and care.
Police stated that over the years, Sepulveda nurtured about 90 children and are concerned that there may be other affected persons or individuals with information that could be useful in the investigation.
Authorities are now talking to a fifth victim and are asking anyone who has information to come forward.
The case highlights the need for effective pre-placement, in-placement, and post-placement child protection systems for child protection advocates. While screening caregivers is important, protection also means regular monitoring, safe reporting systems and making sure children know they can talk to trusted adults if something feels wrong.
On July 17, Sepulveda was arrested and is being held. He has been released on $1 million bail.
The investigation continues and authorities are trying to determine the scope of the allegations and who else may have been involved.
