Pasadena Fire Captain Charged with Felony Sex Abuse of Three Children

The alleged abuse spanned over two decades in Los Angeles and Ventura counties.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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A Pasadena Fire Department captain has been charged with nine felony counts for allegedly sexually abusing three children under the age of 14 over a period spanning more than two decades in Los Angeles and Ventura counties. The district attorney stated that the allegations describe 'years of sexual abuse of children by someone who was repeatedly placed in positions of trust' and that 'no title, badge or uniform places anyone above the law.'

Why it matters

This case highlights the serious issue of sexual abuse of minors by those in positions of authority and trust, and the need for thorough investigations and strong prosecution to hold perpetrators accountable, regardless of their professional status.

The details

Christopher James Ramstead, a 47-year-old Pasadena Fire Department captain, has been charged with nine felony counts of committing lewd acts upon a child. The alleged abuse occurred during various time frames between March 2003 and July 2025 in Los Angeles and Ventura counties. Ramstead pleaded not guilty during his arraignment, and a bail hearing is scheduled for February 13th. If convicted, he faces 135 years to life in state prison.

  • The alleged abuse occurred during various time frames between March 2003 and July 2025.
  • Ramstead was arraigned on February 10, 2026.
  • A bail hearing is scheduled for February 13, 2026.

The players

Christopher James Ramstead

A 47-year-old Pasadena Fire Department captain who has been charged with nine felony counts of committing lewd acts upon a child.

Nathan J. Hochman

The Los Angeles County District Attorney who stated that the allegations describe 'years of sexual abuse of children by someone who was repeatedly placed in positions of trust' and that 'no title, badge or uniform places anyone above the law.'

Vira Samouhi

The Deputy District Attorney from the Sex Crimes Division who is prosecuting the case.

Los Angeles Police Department

The department investigating the case and asking for any additional victims or information to come forward.

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What they’re saying

“These allegations describe years of sexual abuse of children by someone who was repeatedly placed in positions of trust. The harm alleged here is profound, and no title, badge or uniform places anyone above the law. We commend the courage of those who reported this abuse, request any others who have information about such abuse to come forward, and assure the public that our office will aggressively pursue justice and stand with survivors.”

— Nathan J. Hochman, Los Angeles County District Attorney (pasadenanow.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on February 13th whether or not to allow Christopher James Ramstead out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the critical need for thorough investigations and strong prosecution of sexual abuse allegations, even against those in positions of authority and trust. It underscores the importance of survivors coming forward and the responsibility of the justice system to pursue justice and support victims, regardless of the perpetrator's professional status.