An active duty military man based at Lemoore Naval Air Station was booked into Fresno County Jail last month on suspicion of raping a woman at China Peak Mountain Resort, officials with the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office reported.
John Burton, 39, was booked into jail on Feb. 18, and his bail was set at $50,000. He posted bond and was released the next day, sheriff’s spokesman Tony Botti said in a news release.
Sheriff’s detectives went to the China Peak resort near Huntington Lake on Feb. 17 for a report of a sex offense. Deputies learned that Burton broke into the hotel room of a woman who was staying there alone and sexually assaulted her, Botti said. Employees learned about the assault and reported it to the sheriff’s office.
Detectives interviewed Burton, the victim and other witnesses. He was subsequently arrested and booked into jail.
The sheriff’s office said Burton is an active duty military member stationed at Lemoore Naval Air Station.
Detectives continue to investigate the case and whether other victims exist. They’re asking anyone with information about Burton to come forward.
People with information can contact Detective Leticia Willow at 559-600-8226 or Valley Crime Stoppers at 559-498-7867 or www.valleycrimestoppers.org. The case number is #20-1975.
Tipsters to Crime Stoppers may remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.
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