SALT LAKE CITY — A man in southern Utah was charged Tuesday with sexually abusing multiple children.
Alberto Arellano, 47, of Beryl, Iron County, was charged in 5th District Court with eight counts of sexual abuse of a child, a second-degree felony.
Three girls told police that Arellano would abuse them during camping trips and other outings, according to a police affidavit. All three described Arellano as being a family friend, the affidavit states.
A 7-year-old girl recounted being abused during a trip at Baker Dam Campground at Baker Reservoir in Washington County, according to the affidavit.
A 9-year-old girl also told police about similar abuse during a camping trip, as did a 10-year-old girl, the affidavit states, who added that she was also abused at birthday parties.
“The areas where the offenses occurred were described as Baker Dam Reservoir and an area of the Virgin River, just off of Mall Drive in St. George,” the affidavit states.
Police say Arellano is a Mexican national in the U.S. illegally and may flee if released from custody.