Business Owner Arrested Following Sexual Battery Investigation in Marina
Suspect in custody | Courtesy of Marina PD
MARINA, CA — The Marina Police Department arrested 40 year old Diego Andres Alape of Santa Rosa, on May 4th, 2026, following an investigation into a reported sexual assault at a local business. The arrest stems from an incident reported on April 10, 2026, occurring within the 3000 block of Del Monte Boulevard at a business identified as Botanica Y Esperanza.
According to the police report, a female victim sought spiritual cleansing services from Alape, the business owner. The victim reported that Alape sexually assaulted her under the guise of performing the spiritual ritual. Following an investigation by the Marina Police Department, the case was reviewed by the Monterey County District Attorney’s Office, which subsequently filed felony charges and issued a warrant for Alape’s arrest.
On May 4, at approximately 2:00 p.m., law enforcement contacted Alape at the place of business and took him into custody without incident. Alape was booked into the Monterey County Jail on charges of penetration with a foreign object and sexual battery by fraud. His bail has been set at $100,000.
The City of Marina Code Enforcement is also participating in the investigation regarding potential violations of the business’s use permit. Authorities are examining whether the establishment was conducting massages without the required state and local licensing or certifications. While the city expressed respect for the cultural significance of spiritual services, officials emphasized that all businesses must adhere to regulatory certifications to ensure community safety. The investigation into the licensing violations remains ongoing.
