Gloria Allred Responds to Gastineau Supporters

Attorney Gloria Allred has announced plans to attend Tuesday’s court hearing for a former San Bernardino County Sheriff’s deputy after learning his supporters planned a rally at the courthouse.

Nathan Gastineau, 31, of Redlands, a former Highland deputy, is scheduled to appear at 8:30 a.m. at the San Bernardino County Superior Court.

His supporters “indicated” they would rally at the courthouse in support of Gastineau before the hearing, according to a written statement released by Allred’s office.

Gastineau faces three counts of lewd acts upon a child and three counts of unlawful sexual intercourse, according to San Bernardino County District Attorney’s officials. The victim was a member of the Sheriff’s Explorers program.

Gastineau is one of two deputies accused of having a sexual relationship with a minor. Former Victorville deputy Anthony Benjamin, 30, of Beaumont, was arrested in May after he allegedly became involved with an explorer.

Allred represents the young woman in the Gastineau case. The attorney will make a brief statement following the court appearance in response to the rally, according to the statement.