A Stanislaus, California Deputy waved his right to a hearing in rape and embezzlement case.
Sheriff Deputy Michael Galvan, 31, was a former school resource officer accused of rape and stealing public money, pleaded guilty to 2 felonies this morning in Stanislaus County Superior Court, as part of a plea deal that will result in a 16 month sentence.
Deputy Galvan, of Turlock said little more than "yes, sir" and "no contest" as he entered pleas. Judge Donald Shaver promised concurrent sentences for two serious felonies, assault under the color of authority and embezzlement.
Chief Deputy District Attorney Dave Harris dropped three other charges in return for Galvan's plea: rape with threat of use of authority, misappropriation of public money and possession of a dangerous weapon.
The prosecutor said he offered the deal so the victim and her children would not have to testify at trial.
"This is the best resolution for everybody involved," Harris said.
In a legal claim that is the precursor to a lawsuit, the woman said Galvan threatened to have her children taken away from her if she complained about him. An affidavit supporting an arrest warrant said Galvan was the subject of an FBI sting because a gang task force received complaints about him.
The victim, who is referred to as Jane Doe in a criminal complaint, due to the nature of the charges. She may address the court when Galvan is sentenced June 24.
The judge ordered Galvan to pay restitution to replace $1,149 he pocketed during a sting operation at Hanshaw Middle School, where Galvan had been posted. The deputy has been on unpaid leave since he was arrested, on the job, on Dec. 1, 2006.
Galvan has no prior record, so he likely will serve half of the time, or nine months, behind bars. He will be on parole for three years after his release and will not be able to hold a public service job again.
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