In a recent development, a California woman, identified as Jane Doe, has filed a federal lawsuit against Anaheim police officer Carlos Romero, accusing him of sexually assaulting her. The lawsuit, which was filed in U.S. District Court in the Central District of California, also names the city of Anaheim as a defendant.

According to the lawsuit, the alleged incident took place on September 25, 2023. Four months prior, Romero had noticed Jane Doe at an In-N-Out restaurant and used her license plate number to contact her. Jane Doe claims that Romero asked for her phone number and began messaging her, despite her expressing that she did not want a romantic relationship.

Over the next few months, Romero occasionally sent text messages to Jane Doe and visited her home while on duty, as stated in the lawsuit. While Jane Doe consented to kissing Romero at her home on one occasion, she declined his sexual advances. However, on September 25th, Romero asked to visit her house again. Jane Doe agreed but made it clear that she did not want to have sex.

According to the lawsuit, Romero, who was on duty and dressed in uniform, began kissing Jane Doe and later performed oral sex with her consent. However, he then allegedly pulled his pants down and sexually assaulted her despite her repeated protests. The lawsuit details that Jane Doe was able to push Romero off of her but he then forced her to perform oral sex on him.

The lawsuit asserts that Jane Doe was terrified and fearful for her life throughout the incident, as Romero's service weapon was within reach on top of a nearby couch. Following the assault, Jane Doe states that she simply wanted Romero to leave.

Anaheim Police Department has placed Romero on administrative leave and has initiated a criminal investigation after becoming aware of the alleged incident. The Orange County District Attorney's Office has not provided any information regarding potential criminal charges against Romero.

In response to the lawsuit, a spokesperson for the city of Anaheim emphasized that the police department thoroughly investigates all matters of employee misconduct and holds officers to the highest standards.

Jane Doe is seeking a minimum of $10,000,000 in damages. However, her attorney, Gregory Peacock, could not be reached for further comment at this time.

As the legal proceedings unfold, the case raises concerns about the alleged abuse of power and breach of trust by a member of law enforcement. Authorities will now focus on determining the truth behind the accusations and achieving justice for all parties involved.