Full Notification

The Novato Police Department was alerted to a child sexual assault that occurred several years ago. An NPD Detective specializing in Child Forensic Interviews spoke with the victim, who is now 12 years-old, and determined critical information about the assault. The suspect was identified as Oseas Hernandez Cotuc, a 38-year-old Novato resident.
 
During subsequent investigation, NPD Detectives interviewed several witnesses and gathered evidence establishing probable cause for an arrest. Earlier today (1/9), Detectives arrested Cotuc and booked him into Marin County Jail on four different Child Sexual Assault charges. Cotuc’s bail was set at one million dollars.
 
The Novato Police Department is committed to thoroughly investigating sexual assault crimes, particularly those involving children. We express our gratitude to our partners at the Jeanette Prandi Children’s Center and the Marin County District Attorney’s Office for their invaluable support and assistance to the victim and their family. We also extend our thanks to the victim in this case for their courage, cooperation, and willingness to help.
 
We encourage all victims of sexual assault to reach out to an officer and file a police report by calling 415-897-4361, as this can play a crucial role in reducing such crimes in our community. Visit novato.org/victimresources  for more information.
 
Additional Victim Resources:

• Vigilant Parent Initiative Program: Our School Resource Officer is available to assist with incidents relating to our school-aged community. Parents are encouraged to participate in the Vigilant Parent Initiative Program is offered through the Novato Police Department to educate parents on how to keep children safe from online predators. To request a presentation, please call 415-897-4361 or email [email protected]. For more information, visit: svicac.org/vigilant-parent-initiative
• Community Violence Solutions: cvsolutions.org/ or by phone: 800-670-7273