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OC Caregiver Arrested For Alleged Elder Abuse, Sexual Battery Of Woman, 66

LAGUNA WOODS (CBSLA.com) — An Orange County in-home caregiver was in custody Wednesday for allegedly sexually abusing a 66-year-old woman.

Orange County Sheriff's Department Special Victims Detail Monday arrested 62-year-old Robert Ligayo, of Aliso Viejo, on suspicion of elder abuse and sexual battery.

The alleged victim, a wheelchair-bound Laguna Woods resident, told authorities that Ligayo had been sexually abusing her for the past six months. He then admitted to the assault during the investigation, officials said.

Ligayo has no criminal history. Lt. Mike Gavin told KNX1070 families need to be vigilant when it comes to hiring care for elderly loved ones.

OC Caregiver Arrested For Alleged Elder Abuse

"It can fall under various categories from sexual abuse to theft to just taking advantage of the elderly in a lot of different ways, that's our concern with this particular case," Gavin said.

Investigators believe there may be other possible victims because Ligayo, who has been a licensed caregiver since 2001, has worked for several caregiver companies in Orange County.

Ligayo, who's being held on $100,000 bail at Central Men's Jail, is expected to appear in court on Wednesday.

Anyone with information about the suspect or possible victims is asked to contact the Orange County Sheriff's Department at (714)647-7000 or submit an anonymous tip to OC Crime Stoppers at 855-TIP-OCCS or occrimestoppers.org.

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