Former Monte Vista Christian School Teacher Arrested on Lewd Acts Allegations
SANTA CRUZ, CA — A former teacher at Monte Vista Christian School was arrested in Suffolk County, New York, on Friday following an investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct involving a minor.
In April, deputies received a report regarding an incident allegedly occurring in 2022 involving 28-year-old Jacob Lee. Detectives with the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office Sex Crimes Unit conducted an investigation and identified Lee as the primary suspect in the case.
On August 14, 2026, Sheriff’s Office detectives traveled to Suffolk County, New York, to execute the arrest. Lee faces multiple charges under California Penal Code section 288(c)(1), which covers lewd or lascivious acts with a child aged 14 or 15. Law enforcement personnel are arranging to extradite Lee back to California to face the pending charges.
Sheriff Chris Clark confirmed that the investigation remains active and ongoing. Due to Lee’s former employment as a teacher and his involvement within the local church community, authorities suspect there may be additional victims.
Law enforcement officials expressed appreciation to Monte Vista Christian School for cooperating fully with the investigation. Authorities request anyone with additional information to contact Detective Munoz at 831-454-7646.
