Former Walnut Creek Attorney Convicted of Sexually Abusing Minors

Jonathan Dean Bishop faces multiple life sentences for 27 felony counts related to child sexual abuse and possession of child sexual abuse material.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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A Contra Costa County jury has convicted former Walnut Creek attorney Jonathan Dean Bishop, 51, on 27 felony counts related to the sexual abuse of three minor victims under the age of 14, as well as possession of over 600 images of child sexual abuse material. Bishop faces multiple life sentences for the crimes, which occurred between 2004 and 2021.

Why it matters

This case highlights the devastating impact of child sexual abuse and the importance of holding perpetrators accountable. The convictions of Bishop, a former attorney, underscore the need for vigilance in the legal profession and the community to protect vulnerable children from predators.

The details

Bishop was convicted on 24 counts of committing lewd acts upon three minor victims, identified as Jane Doe #1, Jane Doe #2, and Jane Doe #3, who were all under the age of 14 at the time of the abuse. The jury also found him guilty of sexually abusing Jane Doe #1, who was under 10 years old at the time, and possessing over 600 images of child sexual abuse material depicting two of the victims.

  • The abuse of Jane Doe #1 occurred between June 5, 2010, and June 4, 2018.
  • The abuse of Jane Doe #2 occurred between February 2012 and February 2021.
  • The abuse of Jane Doe #3 occurred between September 2004 and September 2014.
  • Bishop was taken into custody at Oakland International Airport on December 13, 2023, upon arriving from Florida, where he had been residing and practicing law.
  • Bishop's next court appearance is scheduled for April 17, 2026, at 8:30 AM in Bay Court, Richmond, Dept. 02.

The players

Jonathan Dean Bishop

A 51-year-old former Walnut Creek real estate attorney who was convicted on 27 felony counts related to the sexual abuse of children and possession of child sexual abuse material.

Contra Costa District Attorney Diana Becton

The district attorney who praised the bravery of the victims and the dedication of the prosecution team in securing the conviction.

Jane Doe #1, Jane Doe #2, and Jane Doe #3

The three minor victims, all under the age of 14, who were sexually abused by Jonathan Dean Bishop.

Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force

The law enforcement task force whose forensic and investigative efforts were critical to the case.

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What they’re saying

“The bravery shown by these victims was extraordinary, and their courage made this conviction possible.”

— Contra Costa District Attorney Diana Becton (contracostaherald.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on April 17, 2026, whether to allow Jonathan Dean Bishop to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the critical need for vigilance and accountability within the legal profession to protect vulnerable children from predators. It underscores the importance of supporting victims and ensuring that those who commit such heinous crimes face the full consequences of their actions.