SAN DIEGO — A 52-year-old dog groomer from Solana Beach has been sentenced to five years in state prison after pleading guilty to attempting to sexually assault a 75-year-old woman in her Carmel Valley home, the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department confirmed on Monday.
The incident occurred on October 31, 2024, when Tony Choi reportedly arrived at the woman’s residence on Carmel Valley Road, offering to wash her dogs. The unsuspecting homeowner invited him inside, at which point Choi allegedly attempted to initiate a sexual assault.
Caretaker Interrupts Assault Attempt
According to authorities, the attack was abruptly interrupted by the victim’s caretaker, prompting Choi to flee the scene. Deputies later tracked him down and arrested him at his home the same evening.
Following his guilty plea, Choi was sentenced to five years in a California state prison and is now required to register as a sex offender upon his release, a designation that will follow him for life under California law.
Community Shocked by Incident
The case has shaken residents of the Torrey Highlands and Carmel Valley communities, where Choi was previously known for his dog grooming services. No further charges were filed related to other individuals, but authorities have urged anyone with additional information to come forward.
📢 Sheriff’s Office: Public Safety a Priority
In a statement, the Sheriff’s Department reiterated its commitment to protecting the most vulnerable residents of San Diego County.
“This case underscores the importance of community vigilance and quick action,” a spokesperson said. “We thank the victim’s caretaker whose intervention likely prevented a far worse outcome.”
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Tags: Solana Beach Crime, San Diego News, Attempted Sexual Assault, Dog Groomer Sentenced, Tony Choi Arrest, Carmel Valley Crime, San Diego Sheriff, Elder Abuse Case California, Local Crime Reporting
