Suspect in Golden Gate Park sexual assault of minor arrested

SAN FRANCISCO (KRON) — San Francisco police announced an arrest Friday in the sexual assault of a minor that took place last week in a Golden Gate Park restroom. San Francisco Interim Police Chief Paul Yep announced the arrest on Friday at a news conference, accompanied by San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie and District Attorney Brooke Jenkins.

The incident occurred on Oct. 23. Police say a man took a young girl into a restroom near the Golden Gate Park Polo Fields and groped her.

“This case was an extremely high priority for us,” Yep said.

The suspect was identified as 19-year-old Dominick Jeremiah Valle-Buitrago of San Francisco. He was arrested on Thursday in Pleasant Hill, police said. He was booked Thursday night in San Francisco Jail on several felony charges, including kidnapping, sexual battery, sexual battery on a minor, and other charges.

“The crime committed last week against a minor in the Polo Fields bathroom in Golden Gate Park was extremely upsetting,” said Mayor Lurie in a tweet following the press conference. “The safety of our kids is non-negotiable. The SFPD immediately launched an investigation. They acted with urgency and used every available tool, including DNA testing and now, the SFPD has arrested a suspect.”

“My heart goes out to the child and their family during this painful time,” he added. “Your city is here to support you.”

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.