A Twentynine Palms man was arrested yesterday (April 5), accused of unlawful intercourse with a minor. According to a Sheriff’s press release, on April 3, deputies from the Morongo Basin Station responded to a report of sexual abuse to a minor in Twentynine Palms. Deputies learned the suspect engaged in sexual activities with the victim. The suspect identified himself to the victim as “Z” or “Zee” and said he was 23 years old. Investigators conducted interviews, collected evidence, and identified the suspect to be Zhataviyus Lord. Records revealed Lord is 28 years old and a registered sex offender. On April 4, an arrest warrant was issued for Lord in connection with the crimes that reportedly occurred. On April 5, deputies located, arrested, and booked Zhataviyus Lord at the West Valley Detention Center for crimes related to sexual intercourse with a minor, with his bail set at $500,000.
Based on the facts and circumstances surrounding this case, it is believed there may be more victims in the area. Anyone with information related to this investigation is asked to contact the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department Morongo Basin Station at (760) 366-4175. Anyone wishing to remain anonymous may contact We-Tip at 1-888-78-CRIME.
