Jury Convicts Tanner Fite (23) on Four Felony Child Sex Crimes

Author: District Attorney
Date: 7/26/2024 4:22 PM

District Attorney Dan Dow announced today that a San Luis Obispo County jury has convicted a San Luis Obispo resident of committing multiple acts of sexual abuse of a minor.

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After an eight-day jury trial, the San Luis Obispo County jury deliberated and quickly returned their verdicts.  The jury heard evidence including testimony from the minor victim that Tanner Williamdean Fite (DOB 06/07/2001) committed four separate sexual acts on October 15, 2023.

During the course of the trial, it was determined that the defendant hid evidence from law enforcement that was later discovered and shown to the jury.  Evidence included cyber forensic data retrieved from the defendant’s cell phone that revealed the defendant had viewed 25 pornographic videos during the time he was babysitting the child victim.

“I am very proud of the young victim who displayed great courage when she reported the crime and later testified in court,” said District Attorney Dan Dow.  “Her courage will inspire other survivors to report so that justice can be served to predators like Mr. Fite.”

The Honorable Judge Jesse Marino will sentence the defendant on October 4, 2024, in Department 10 of the San Luis Obispo County Superior Court.  The maximum possible sentence is 14 years in state prison.  The defendant will be required to register as a sex offender.  

This case was investigated by the San Luis Obispo City Police Department.  Detective Jeff Koznek was lead investigator.  Monterey County District Attorney’s Office assisted by providing Courthouse Dog Norma Jean to sit with the young victim in court while she testified.  This case was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Kimberly R. Dittrich assigned to the Sexual Assault Prosecution Unit.

Here is a copy of the charging document.  Here is a copy of the defendant’s booking photo.

Please contact Assistant District Attorney Eric J. Dobroth at 805-781-5819 with any questions.        
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