The Wagner Law Group has secured a $5.25 million settlement from the City of Sanger for a victim of sexual abuse by former police officer J.D. Torrence, who was convicted of multiple rapes and sexual assaults committed while on duty. This case represents a significant development in addressing abuse of power by law enforcement officials and provides compensation for a survivor whose ordeal spanned six years, with the last reported incident occurring in 2022.
Former Sanger Police Department officer J.D. Torrence was convicted in Federal Court and is currently serving five consecutive life terms for crimes including kidnapping, rape, and sexual assault. According to legal representatives, Torrence forced women into his police car and sexually assaulted them while preventing their escape. Butch Wagner of The Wagner Law Group emphasized the authority and power dynamics that made these crimes particularly damaging, stating that this settlement allows the survivor to move forward with her life.
This settlement has national implications as it addresses the profound violation of public trust when law enforcement officers abuse their positions of authority. Sanger Police Chief John Reynolds previously characterized Torrence's actions as "one of the most serious betrayals of public trust possible." The case highlights systemic issues within police departments and the need for accountability when officers commit crimes against those they are sworn to protect.
The Wagner Law Group, which has recovered over $300 million for victims according to their website at https://www.wagnerlawgroup.com, believes there may be additional victims who have not yet come forward. Legal representatives are encouraging anyone who experienced abuse by Torrence or other Sanger Police Department members to contact their victim hotline. The firm maintains that Torrence was committing these crimes regularly during his tenure, suggesting the possibility of additional victims beyond those already identified.
This settlement represents just the beginning of efforts to compensate victims for the abuse of power by the former Sanger police officer. The case demonstrates how civil litigation can provide recourse for victims when criminal convictions alone may not adequately address the harm caused. With a track record of successful victim advocacy, The Wagner Law Group continues to represent multiple victims in this case while maintaining their commitment to helping injured individuals throughout Fresno, the Central Valley, and Lake Tahoe regions.
