News & Columns > G.T. Houts > Preliminary Hearing for Molestation Suspect Vacated (Update)

Preliminary Hearing for Molestation Suspect Vacated (Update)

Investigation Continues in Case of Big Bear City Pastor

By G.T. Houts
Tuesday, February 16, 2010

Big Bear City, CA - Today's preliminary hearing for Martin Steven Richter, 48, from Big Bear City, on felony charges of child molestation, continuous sexual abuse of a child, oral copulation, and penetration with a foreign object, has been vacated. No new court date has been set.

(Photo by San Bernardino County Sheriff.)

On Wednesday, February 10, the public defender in Richter's case was relieved and attorney Stephen Levine was retained. A defense motion for a continuance was granted by Judge Michael Dest.

The defendant, who has entered a plea of not guilty to all counts, was present in custody. He is incarcerated at the West Valley Detention Center with bail set at $350,000.

Original Story

Big Bear City, CA - An ongoing child molestation investigation led to the arrest of Martin Steven Richter, 48, from Big Bear City. He faces felony charges of child molestation, continuous sexual abuse of a child, oral copulation, and penetration with a foreign object.

(Photo by San Bernardino County Sheriff.)

Richter, who has been identified as a pastor at churches in the Big Bear City and Glendora areas, is being held on $350,000 bail at the West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga.

The initial victim has been identified as a 13-year-old female but authorities are concerned there may be additional victims.

Richter was arrested Saturday, January 30, at his home in Big Bear City.

Yesterday, February 2, Richter was arraigned on the charges and entered a plea of not guilty via video from West Valley Detention Center.

Judge Kenneth Barr appointed a public defender and set a pre-preliminary hearing for 8:30 a.m. on Wednesday, February 10, in Department S-23.

Any information regarding Martin Steven Richter or the ongoing investigation should be immediately reported to Detectives Craig Harris or Laura Marks of the Big Bear Sheriff's Station at (909) 866-0100. Information can be reported anonymously to WE-TIP by calling (800) 78-CRIME.