A Southern California piano teacher was arrested for allegedly sexually abusing a 14-year-old girl. The suspect was identified by Santa Monica police as Hovanes John Jihanyan, 41, of Van Nuys.
The alleged sexual assault had occurred since July 2024, when the victim was 13 years old. Jihanyan teaches piano at the French Conservatory of Music in Beverly Hills.
Sexual contact between the suspect and the young girl occurred in some locations, including the girl’s house, the suspect’s vehicle, and his studio, authorities said.
Jihanyan was detained by Santa Monica police on Thursday in Encino.
He was booked on several offenses, including:
- Lewd acts on a minor aged 13 or younger
- Continuous sex abuse of a juvenile aged 13 or younger
- Possession of child pornography.
- Sexual exploitation of minors
- Sexual assault on a juvenile 13 years or under with a perpetrator 10 years older.
“This is the culmination of an intense and thorough investigation by detectives in the SMPD Youth Services Division,” a Santa Monica police official stated.
Investigators suspect there may be more victims who haven’t come forward. Jihanyan is still in the custody of Santa Monica police. Authorities stated that he had no past criminal background.
Anyone who may have been a victim or has information about the case is asked to contact Det. Lizette Hardgrave at 310-458-2256, Sgt. David Haro at 310-458-8952, or the Watch Commander’s desk at 310-458-8427.
Reference: Southern California piano teacher arrested for alleged sex abuse of young girl
