Claremont Psychologist Arrested For Allegedly Molesting Boy, 9, During Counseling Session

CLAREMONT (CBSLA.com) — A 56-year-old man has been arrested for allegedly molesting a 9-year-old client during a psychological counseling session.

Thomas Gary Amberson, of Upland, was arrested Nov. 15 after "a nine-year-old male alleged that Amberson committed lewd acts upon his person during a counseling session," Lt. Shelly Vander Veen of the Claremont Police Department said.

An investigation also revealed a complaint was filed against Amberson in 2008 after a 13-year-old male made similar allegations, police said.

"That case was not filed by the District Attorney's Office at the time due to insufficient evidence, however, was included in the current criminal filing," Vander Veen said.

On Nov. 15, a search warrant was served at Amberson's Claremont practice. His computer was confiscated and a search of its contents later found child pornography, according to authorities.

Amberson was subsequently arrested on four counts of lewd acts upon a child and one count of possession of child pornography.

He is currently free on $100,000 bond and is scheduled to be arraigned Dec. 17.

"We commend the two minors for their courage in coming forward with these allegations. We believe that there may be additional victims that have not yet come forward," Vander Veen said.

Anyone with information should contact Lt. Vander Veen with the Claremont Police Department at (909)399-5420.