FRESNO, CA, February 06, 2026 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Sanger police misconduct lawyers at The Wagner Law Group have obtained a $5.25 million civil settlement from the City of Sanger on behalf of a survivor who was sexually abused by a former Sanger Police Department officer while he was acting under the authority of his position. The settlement resolves one of multiple civil claims arising from a pattern of abuse committed by the former officer and marks a significant step toward accountability for institutional failures that allowed the misconduct to occur.

The former Sanger Police Department officer, J.D. Torrence, was later convicted in federal court on numerous felony counts, including rape, kidnapping, and aggravated sexual assault. He is currently serving five consecutive life sentences. Sex abuse attorneys at The Wagner Law Group are here to help. "Federal prosecutors established that Torrence used his role as a law enforcement officer to gain access to victims, exert control, and carry out repeated acts of sexual violence over an extended period of time," says Butch Wagner. The criminal case revealed a troubling abuse of power and a profound violation of public trust.

While the criminal convictions addressed Torrence's individual wrongdoing, civil actions are focused on the broader systemic issues that enabled the abuse. Injury lawyers in Fresno at The Wagner Law Group acknowledge the $5.25 million settlement reflects the serious nature of the harm suffered and underscores the responsibility of public entities to protect the community and properly supervise those entrusted with authority. "Civil litigation also plays a critical role in uncovering institutional failures and driving policy changes aimed at preventing similar misconduct in the future," says Wagner.

The Wagner Law Group continues to investigate additional claims related to Torrence's conduct and believes there may be other survivors who have not yet come forward. They have established a Victim Hotline at (833) 200-7111. Survivors of sexual abuse by law enforcement officers often face unique and significant barriers to reporting, including fear of retaliation, disbelief, or further harm. Many victims remain silent for years due to trauma, shame, or uncertainty about whether their experience "counts" as abuse under the law.

Injury attorneys at The Wagner Law Group emphasize that survivors may still have legal rights even if the abuse occurred years ago, and that coming forward does not require immediate public disclosure. Individuals can speak with an attorney confidentially to learn about their options and determine whether a civil claim may be available by call the Victim Hotline at (833) 200-7111. No criminal report or prior complaint is required to seek legal guidance.

In addition to representing the survivor involved in the Sanger settlement, The Wagner Law Group remains committed to advocating for individuals who were harmed by abuses of authority within law enforcement and other institutions. They are also handling FCI Dublin prison sex abuse cases. The firm encourages anyone who believes they were victimized by Torrence, or who experienced sexual misconduct involving law enforcement officers in Sanger or surrounding communities, to reach out for a confidential consultation.

The Wagner Law Group has a long-standing record of representing victims in complex civil rights, sexual abuse, and serious injury cases throughout California. The firm has recovered more than $300 million for victims and is recognized for its commitment to pursuing justice on behalf of those harmed by negligence, misconduct, and institutional failures. Its attorneys handle cases with discretion, sensitivity, and a survivor-centered approach.

About The Wagner Law Group

The Wagner Law Group is a California-based personal injury and civil litigation firm representing victims of sexual abuse, police misconduct, and serious injury across Fresno, the Central Valley, and Lake Tahoe. The firm is dedicated to protecting the rights of survivors and holding individuals and institutions accountable for misconduct.

The Wagner Law Group - Fresno
7815 N Palm Ave
#410
Fresno, CA 93711
(559) 449-1800

The Wagner Law Group - South Lake Tahoe
1034 Emerald Bay Rd
#404
South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
(530) 541-6361

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