News

Former Teacher Previously Investigated For Relationship With Student, Arrested For Lewd Acts With A Minor

Published

8 months ago

November 6, 2024

TURLOCK – James Hooker, the man who gained national attention after it was revealed that during his time as a teacher had been in a relationship with one of his students, was arrested by police Tuesday night on charges of lewd acts with a minor.

Hooker, 54, had been under investigation by the Turlock Police Department since May 17th. The victim in this case who is now an adult, was in contact with authorities on an unrelated matter when she disclosed to police that her relationship with hooker began when she was a 15 year old middle school student. The victim told authorities that they had met on social media, and their relationship continued until she turned 18, when they were married. Turlock authorities then began their investigation.

Evidence and statements were gathered by Detective Navarro, which led to the issuing of an arrest warrant for Hooker. He was arrested Tuesday by the Ceres Police Department and booked into the Stanislaus County Jail. As of time of publication, he did not appear in jail records.

Because of the attention Hooker gained previously, including an appearance on the Dr. Phil Show, authorities believe there could be additional victims, and are asking for anyone who may have come into contact with Hooker to come forward.

“Getting James Hooker off the streets is a victory for the community and especially for potential victims who may have been at risk,” said Detective Navarro in a press release. “This is an important step, but our work is far from over. We believe there could be other victims out there, and we will continue to follow every lead to ensure justice is served.”

Hooker faces charges of lewd acts with a minor 14-15 years old and possession of material depicting sexual conduct of a person under 18.

Below is a video of an interview we shot with James Hooker during his first investigation.

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Carlos Rodriguez

Carlos Rodriguez is an Emmy Award winning photojournalist specializing in public safety and natural disasters. His passion for local news stems from a deep commitment to his community, with a selfless mission to inform the citizens of the valley. As he worked on assignment for 19 days at the devastating Camp Fire in Paradise, California, he spent most of his time helping survivors contact their loved ones to let them know they were ok. Carlos is a veteran of Univision, FOX, and Telemundo TV stations and a native of Modesto, California.

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News

Turlock Police Officer Injured in Motorcycle Crash

Published

3 months ago

April 2, 2025

Carlos Rodriguez

Photo: Turlock Police Department

TURLOCK – A Turlock Police Officer was injured when he was involved in a crash while trying to stop a speeding vehicle Tuesday.

The crash happened in the area of Palm Street and Hawkeye Avenue. The officer, whom authorities identified as Gavin Allison, had his lights and sirens on as he was trying to catch up to a speeding driver when he was involved in a collision with another motorist.

Officer Allison suffered moderate injuries that required stitches to his arm and leg, but is expected to make a full recovery. The other motorist involved in the crash was not injured. Drugs or alcohol do not appear to be a factor in the crash.

Anyone with information regarding the incident is encouraged to contact Officer Rocha at (209) 668-5550 extension 6130.

News

Traffic Collision Reported on Claus Road

Published

3 months ago

March 24, 2025

Carlos Rodriguez

MODESTO – Emergency crews responded to a report of a vehicle collision on Claus Road Monday morning.

The crash was reported near the area of Claus Road and Cedar Creek Drive at about 8:00am. Early reports indicate a pickup truck and another vehicle collided before the pickup hit a tree.

Arriving personnel reported one motorist appeared to have a broken leg.

Expect momentary traffic delays in the area.

News

Merced County Crash Claims Lives of Ceres Man, Child

Published

3 months ago

March 23, 2025

Carlos Rodriguez

MERCED COUNTY – A 20 year old woman was arrested early Saturday morning on charges of DUI and vehicular manslaughter after a crash claimed the lives of two people.

The crash was reported at about 12:19am on Highway 165 near Turner Avenue. According to California Highway Patrol, 20 year old Melissa Rosales of Los Banos was driving a BMW SUV at high speeds south on Highway 165 when she crossed lanes at a curve. Her vehicle crashed into an oncoming Honda Accord driven by a 41 year old man from Ceres with a juvenile passenger. Both occupants of the Honda were killed in the crash.

Rosales suffered major injuries and was taken to Doctors Medical Center in Modesto. Officials say she was under the influence at the time of the crash and faces DUI and vehicular manslaughter charges.

All involved persons were wearing their seat belts at the time of the crash.