On Tuesday, April 7th the South Lake Tahoe Police Department arrested 79-year-old Gilbert Avila for sexual assault and false imprisonment incidents that happened between 2016 and 2023.
Avila is now in custody in Nevada awaiting extradition.
Investigators found that Avila was employed as a local private security guard and used his position of perceived authority to approach women walking at night along local highways.
While driving a marked security vehicle and dressed in a uniform, Avila offered to help women who appeared to be in need; such as being intoxicated, vulnerable, or seeking help. After gaining their trust, these women became victims of unwanted sexual contact.
Authorities say Avila worked in private security at a local private security company in the South Lake Tahoe area for many years, including before the current charges.
The South Lake Tahoe Police Department is encouraging other victims that may have been involved to come forward.
You can report information to SLT Police by sending an email to cybertips@cityofslt.us.
