Former deputy sheriff arrested for kidnapping and sexual assault of 14-year-old girl

A former Los Angeles County sheriff's deputy and his nephew were arrested on suspicion of kidnapping a 14-year-old girl, according to law enforcement and jail records.

The former deputy, 68-year-old Benny Caluya, is also accused of sexual assault, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department. He was arrested by Lancaster Sheriff's Department officers on August 28 and his bail was set at $250,000.

His nephew, 49-year-old Clifford Abihai, is accused of kidnapping, authorities said. His bail was set at $100,000.

Both suspects were released on bail the day of their arrest and are due back in court at the Antelope Valley Courthouse on September 30. It is unclear how the men knew the alleged victim or what led to their arrest.

Records from the state Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training show that Caluya first joined the sheriff's department as a reserve deputy in 1979. He then worked as a deputy with the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department for just over a year before returning to the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department as a deputy in 1982.

He resigned in 2001 for unclear reasons. State records show that his license as a police officer is no longer valid.

When reached for comment by phone Thursday, Caluya referred all questions to his attorney, Mark Gallagher. Gallagher confirmed he represents Caluya but declined to comment.

Abihai also said he had hired a lawyer but could not remember his name.