Rialto Teacher Arrested for Abuse | KMD Law Helps Survivors

Legal Support and Options for Survivors

Steve Paul Perry Popper, a 47-year-old teacher at Bemis Elementary School in Rialto, was arrested on October 29, 2025, by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department. He now faces serious felony charges and is being held on $500,000 bail.

Whether you were a student at Bemis, know someone who was, or have experienced similar harm in the past, this news may feel deeply personal. Memories can surface unexpectedly. Feelings of fear, confusion, or isolation are completely normal. You don’t have to navigate this alone.

At KMD Law, we specialize in supporting survivors of sexual abuse. We offer a safe, confidential space to talk through what happened, answer your questions, and explain your legal options, with no pressure and no cost to start.

If this case has affected you or someone close to you, call us anytime at (833) 456-3529 for a free, private consultation. We’re here to listen and help.

A Summary of the Allegations and Arrest

The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department launched the investigation on October 8 after receiving information about child sexual abuse material, according to the Los Angeles Times, CBS Los Angeles, and KTLA.

Steve Popper

Detectives quickly identified Popper and, during their review, found evidence of direct sexual abuse involving at least four minors.

Charges filed include:

Lewd and lascivious acts with a child under 14 using force or duress
Lewd and lascivious acts with a child under 14
Possession of child pornography

Authorities have not confirmed whether the known victims attended Bemis Elementary, but they believe additional survivors may exist. They’ve released Popper’s booking photo and are asking anyone with information to come forward. Contact Detective Jason Desario at 909-890-4904, or submit tips anonymously through We-Tip at 1-800-782-7463 or wetip.com.

Why Pursuing Justice Matters

Criminal proceedings focus on holding the abuser accountable through the legal system. A civil lawsuit serves a different but equally important purpose: supporting your recovery and ensuring institutional accountability.

A successful civil case can provide:

Financial support for therapy, counseling, and medical care
Compensation for emotional distress, lost educational or career opportunities
Accountability for the school district if policies, supervision, or reporting failed

In California, school districts have paid significant settlements when negligence contributed to abuse. These outcomes not only help survivors but also strengthen safety protocols to protect future students.

California law now gives survivors greater access to justice:

No statute of limitations for child sexual abuse occurring on or after January 1, 2024 (AB 452)
For abuse before 2024: file by age 40 or within 5 years of realizing the abuse caused lasting harm (AB 218)

The Broader Impact: How One Lawsuit Can Prevent Future Harm

When a survivor steps forward in a civil case, the ripple effects extend far beyond personal compensation. Here’s how:

Exposes Systemic Failures: Lawsuits force schools to open records; background checks, staff training logs, and prior complaints. What’s uncovered often reveals patterns (e.g., ignored grooming behaviors or lax after-school supervision) that can be fixed district-wide.
Drives Policy Changes: Many California districts now require annual mandatory reporter training, digital monitoring of school devices, and independent audits because prior settlements demanded them. Your case could be the catalyst for the next improvement.
Deters Future Abusers: Predators choose environments where they believe they won’t be caught. High-profile settlements and public accountability raise the perceived risk, making schools less attractive targets.
Breaks the Cycle of Silence: Every public verdict or settlement signals to other survivors: “You will be believed.” This encourages earlier reporting, stopping abuse before it escalates.
Protects the Next Generation: Children who feel safe learn better. When schools invest in prevention, because they must, fewer students carry lifelong trauma.

Your courage doesn’t just heal you; it safeguards every child who walks through those school doors tomorrow.

How KMD Law Supports Survivors Every Step of the Way

At KMD Law, we’ve spent over two decades helping survivors of sexual abuse reclaim their lives; one conversation, one case, one settlement at a time. We serve clients throughout Southern California and nationwide, meeting you wherever you feel safest.

Here’s how we support you, from the first call to the final resolution:

A Safe, Judgment-Free First Step. Your initial consultation is 100% confidential and free. You control what you share; no pressure to relive details, no obligation to proceed. Many clients start by simply saying, “I saw the news and need to talk.” That’s enough.
Thorough, Compassionate Investigation. We gather evidence quietly and professionally with the goal of building the strongest possible case without adding to your burden:
- School employment records and performance reviews
- Incident reports, parent complaints, and staff emails
- Witness statements from former students or colleagues
- Digital forensics (if applicable)
Zero Financial Risk. We work on a contingency basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover money for you. No retainers, no hourly bills, no surprises. This levels the playing field against well-funded school districts and their insurers.
Maximum Privacy Protection. Your healing comes first, not headlines.
- File under “Jane Doe” or “John Doe” to shield your identity
- Seal sensitive court documents
- Limit public filings and media exposure
Holistic Recovery Planning. We’ve secured millions in total compensation for our clients. Settlements and verdicts are structured to support long-term well-being, including:
- Therapy funds for trauma-focused counseling
- Education trusts for college or vocational training
- Lost income replacement if abuse derailed your career
- Relocation assistance if you need a fresh start
National Reach with Local Expertise. While we’re based in Southern California and deeply familiar with Rialto Unified, San Bernardino County, and state education codes, we represent survivors across the country.
Ongoing Support Beyond the Case. Recovery doesn’t end with a check. We can connect clients with:
- Survivor support groups
- Mental health resources
- Financial planners to manage settlement funds

You’re never just a case number; you’re part of the KMD Law family.

Take the Next Step

You don’t need to have everything figured out today. If Steve Paul Perry Popper harmed you, or if this case has resurfaced memories of any abuse by a teacher, coach, or other trusted adult, one confidential conversation can help clarify your options.