Shocking Allegations: SJ Councilmember Omar Torres Accused of Lewd Acts Involving a Child
San Jose Councilmember Omar Torres was arrested on Tuesday, according to the San Jose Police Department. This arrest is part of an ongoing investigation into allegations of lewd acts involving a child.
Following his arrest, Torres also submitted his resignation from the city council, as confirmed by fellow Councilmember Bien Doan. Local officials had previously urged him to resign after the serious allegations came to light.
San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan expressed his shock and concern over the situation, stating, “Omar Torres has been arrested on suspicion of committing some of the most serious crimes imaginable. I’m horrified by the possibility that — far from his claim of outrageous fantasies — he may have in fact harmed children.”
In response to the allegations, the city council voted to remove Torres from all council-related appointments. Before his arrest, Torres had requested a 30-day leave to focus on his mental health.
Torres was elected in 2022 to represent District 3 in San Jose. He made history as the first openly gay Latino to serve on any city council in Santa Clara County, according to his official biography.
A police affidavit obtained by KRON4 reveals troubling details about Torres’ communications. The affidavit includes text messages in which Torres allegedly mentioned having oral sex with a 17-year-old.
These messages were exchanged with a 21-year-old man from Chicago named Terry Beeks, with whom Torres reportedly had a “sexual online relationship.”
Torres has claimed that Beeks extorted him for nearly $22,000, threatening to release nude photos of him. In September, the Chicago Police Department executed a search warrant at Beeks’ residence, seizing various items, including his phone and laptop.
According to Beeks, Torres made inappropriate comments regarding an underage boy and inquired about “finding minors.” After reviewing the text messages between Torres and Beeks, the San Jose Police Department began viewing Torres as a suspect rather than a victim.
Throughout this ordeal, Torres has maintained his innocence. His attorney stated in October that the texts were merely “outrageous fantasy and role play,” asserting that they do not represent any actual actions or intentions.
The situation continues to develop as authorities investigate further into the allegations against Councilmember Omar Torres.