Calif. Man Accused of Molesting Family Member for Years, and He Allegedly Has a History Going Back Decades: Sheriff

A 75-year-old man from California, Larry Candies, has been charged with multiple counts of lewd and lascivious conduct involving a child under the age of 14. The allegations stem from a family member’s report made to police, claiming that Candies had been sexually abusing her for several years.

The investigation began in September 2025 when the mother of the alleged victim approached law enforcement. According to the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office, the 13-year-old girl informed detectives that the incidents of abuse began when she was just 11 years old. The police took immediate action by interviewing the child, leading to a deeper inquiry into Candies’s past.

During the course of their investigation, authorities discovered that Candies has a troubling history concerning sexual misconduct. The sheriff’s department revealed that prior to this current allegation, there had been earlier accusations against him. Reports from Child Protective Services and the Stockton Police Department revealed further claims of sexual abuse attributed to Candies.

As detectives delved deeper, they reached out to previous alleged victims and family members of Candies. One relative came forward, detailing experiences of sexual abuse at Candies’s hands during the 1980s, when the individual was aged between eight and thirteen. This revelation added weight to the seriousness of the charges laid against Candies and raised concerns about the possibility of additional victims remaining silent.

Following the investigation, Candies was arrested and subsequently charged with eight counts of lewd and lascivious acts involving a minor. As it stands, he is being held in custody with a bond set at $1 million. It remains unclear if Candies has formally entered a plea regarding the charges against him.

The sheriff’s office indicated their belief that there may be more victims who have not yet come forward to report their experiences of abuse. Such assertions highlight the potential scale of the problem and underscore the ongoing need for vigilance and support for survivors of such crimes.

In light of these allegations, resources and support are available for individuals who suspect or have experienced child abuse. The Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline provides confidential assistance to those in need, offering a toll-free service that operates 24/7 in various languages.

For those who may wish to find help without calling, the Crisis Text Line offers an alternative method of support. Individuals can text “STRENGTH” to the number 741-741 to connect with a certified crisis counsellor.

This troubling case adds to the conversation around child protection and the importance of reporting and addressing sexual abuse, particularly within families. As the investigation continues, authorities remain committed to uncovering the full extent of any further allegations linked to Candies. The need for awareness and action in cases of child abuse is more critical than ever.