Defendant in Yosemite National Park Sexual Assault Case Sentenced to More Than 12 Years in Prison

FRESNO, Calif. — Charles Porter, 32, formerly of Pomona, was sentenced today to 12 years and four months in prison for attempted aggravated sexual abuse, abusive sexual contact, assault with intent to commit aggravated sexual abuse, assault with intent to commit abusive sexual contact, and assault by striking or wounding, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.

According to evidence presented at trial, on April 14, 2020, in Yosemite National Park, Porter, an Aramark employee working and residing in Yosemite Valley, entered the victim’s cabin in employee housing at night while the victim was asleep and began to sexually assault the victim, biting and punching him during the attack. The victim fought back, and during the struggle, Porter attempted to penetrate the victim. The victim was able to reach the door of his one-room cabin to call for help. Nearby neighbors heard his call for help, and they responded and physically removed Porter. On April 6, 2022, after a three-day trial, a federal jury found Porter guilty of all charges.

This case was the product of an investigation by National Park Service Special Agents and Law Enforcement Rangers. Assistant U.S. Attorney Laura Jean Berger prosecuted the case.