SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – A 79-year-old man was arrested in Nevada, accused of sexually assaulting women when he was employed as a private security guard in South Lake Tahoe between 2016 and 2023.
The South Lake Tahoe Police Department (SLTPD) arrested Gilbert Avila on April 7, 2025. He is currently in jail in Nevada awaiting extradition to South Lake Tahoe where he will face the sexual assault charges as well as false imprisionment.
SLTPD says Avila used his position of perceived authority to approach women walking at night along local highways while he was in a marked security vehicle and dressed in a uniform. The police say Avila wold offer assistance to women who appeared to be in need – some of whom were potentially intoxication, vulnerable, or seeking help. After gaining their trust, the women became victims of unwanted sexual contact. He was employed by the private security firm in South Lake Tahoe for many years, including periods before the current charges.
Police investigators believe there are additional victims who may wish to come forward.
“We recognize the courage it takes to report sexual assault,” SLTPD said in a news release. “Many victims never come forward. National statistics show that more than two out of three sexual assaults go unreported. Our department is committed to treating survivors with compassion and dignity, and we want them to know they are not alone.”
Email cybertips@cityofslt.us to contact SLTPD concerning this case.