OC teacher accused of molest, child porn

SANTA ANA, Calif.

Authorities say Alex Bassinne, 50, was arrested on Thursday by Newport Beach police.

According to the district attorney's office, Bassinne moved from a home in Laguna Niguel to a home in Newport Beach in 2011. When he moved, he left behind some furniture, including a desk that had a disk containing graphic porn depicting girls around the age of 10 and 12.

Police say a search of Bassinne's Newport Beach home turned up more porn of the same nature.

After further investigation, police identified two female victims. At the time of the alleged assaults, Bassinne worked at Santa Ana High School and Raymond A. Villa Fundamental Intermediate School.

Bassinne allegedly touched the buttocks of a 15-year-old girl during a class trip on Feb. 15, 2009.

"He was put on administrative leave, and they began an administrative investigation," said Santa Ana School Police Lt. Mark Van Holt.

But police say there was not enough evidence at the time to file charges. Nearly two years later, Bassinne allegedly looked down the shirt of a 13-year-old girl in November 2010. When the girl attempted to move her shirt to stop him, he allegedly grabbed her shirt and positioned it so that he could continue leering at her chest.

Police say Bassinne retired from the school district last year.

Bassinne is free after posting $100,000 bail. He is scheduled to be arraigned on June 15.

Authorities are looking for any other possible victims. Anyone with information is urged to call the Orange County District Attorney's Office at (714) 347-8794.

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