Sheriff Bill Brown | Official website of Santa Barbara County
Sheriff Bill Brown | Official website of Santa Barbara County
Sheriff's detectives in Santa Maria, California, have arrested Mark Pearse, 64, and his son Allen Pearse, 34, for committing lewd acts against a child. Additionally, Allen Pearse faces charges of rape involving three other females.
The investigation commenced in January 2024 following a report from an adult survivor who was a juvenile when the crimes took place. The incidents reportedly began around 2009 at the Los Pinos Apartments in Orcutt. By January 2025, deputies had identified another survivor who reported being raped by Allen. In February 2025, two more survivors came forward with similar allegations against him.
On March 4, 2025, detectives apprehended Mark and Allen Pearse at their home on W. Boone Street in Santa Maria under warrants related to these offenses. Both are currently held without bail at the Northern Branch Jail. Mark is charged with felonies related to lewd acts with a minor under 14 years old. Allen faces charges including lewd acts with a minor under 14, digital penetration of an unconscious person, rape of an unconscious person, and sodomy of an unconscious person.
Authorities suspect there may be additional victims connected to the Los Pinos Apartments or Boone Street area. The Sheriff's Office encourages anyone with relevant information about crimes involving Mark or Allen to contact Detective Brownlee at 805-681-4150. Anonymous tips can be submitted online at https://www.sbsheriff.org/home/anonymous-tip/ or by calling 805-681-4171.
Recognizing that survivors of sexual assault may hesitate to come forward for various reasons, the Sheriff's Office offers resources regardless of involvement in criminal investigations. They coordinate closely with the Santa Barbara County District Attorney’s Office and Victim-Witness Program to ensure survivor needs are prioritized alongside investigative efforts. Victim Advocates provide ongoing support throughout the legal process and can be reached through the Victim-Witness Assistance Program at 805-568-2400 or toll-free at 855-840-3232.
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