Across the Area

Rape charges vs. “spiritual healer”

BOTANICA EL PADRINO in Anaheim. owned and operated by Leo Garcia (APD photos).

An arraignment is scheduled Monday for a self-styled “spiritual healer” in Anaheim charged with raping two women.

LEOPOLDO GARCIA

According to Anaheim police, 69-year-old Leopoldo Garcia Garcia ­– also known as “Leo” or “Curandero” – was originally booked on Dec. 23 on one rape charge. He made bail and was released from the city jail before a second rape charge was brought forth. He was arrested again on Thursday.

Garcia owned and operated Botanica El Padrino in the Anaheim Marketplace on South Anaheim Boulevard. The criminal complaint against him alleges that he claimed he could remove curses from women in exchange for having sex with them.

He now faces a sentencing enhancement for multiple victims. The prosecution is asking for $1 million bail.

Alleged gambling den in GG busted

Six people were arrested and nine gambling devices seized Friday afternoon by Garden Grove police.

According to Sgt. Troy Haller, in response to complaints about a business being used as a front for an illegal gambling operation, police served a search warrant at Rose 999, 14291 Euclid St., Suite D-111 at 4:58 p.m.

After being arrested for misdemeanor violations, the six were released. Their names were not released.

Categories: Across the Area

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