Children's Counselor Accused Of Sexual Assault Against Teenager At Center

SACRAMENTO (CBS13) — A children's counselor is under arrest tonight, accused of taking advantage of a vulnerable victim.

Sacramento Police say Theresa Gooch worked at a home for troubled youth and sexually assaulted a teenager who lived there.

Though police believe the relationship began in the middle of last year and lasted until February, the counselor's alleged misconduct didn't come to light until June.

She was supposed to provide hope and healing for young victims of abuse and neglect at the Children's Receiving Home on Auburn Boulevard in Sacramento.

But Gooch is accused of inappropriately touching and having a six-month sexual relationship with a 16-year-old girl who lived at the center.

"We are aware of an event reported to have taken place outside of our campus," said CEO David Ballard.

Reading from a prepared statement, he refused to answer any questions. He confirms Gooch no longer works at the center and her alleged victim no longer lives there. He says the center is cooperating with the investigation.

Trouble has seemed to follow Gooch for the past few years.

Neighbors say she was evicted from her old apartment in downtown Sacramento two years ago, describing her as scary.

"She's been always trying to bring  people up there and do weird things, and my grandma's been scared ever since," said Blanca Yanez.

They say the 24-year-old's son, a toddler at the time, would be left unattended.

"One time, I had to take care of the kid myself. I was scared she was going to do something to me."

Now Gooch is behind bars, accused of taking advantage of a child she was trusted to help.