Kern County Sheriff’s Sergeant Pleads Not Guilty to Rape and Burglary Charges
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. – A Kern County Sheriff’s Office sergeant facing multiple felony charges, including rape, assault, and burglary, pleaded not guilty in court on Monday afternoon.
Sergeant Stephen Wells was charged following allegations made by a former colleague, a sheriff’s dispatcher, who reported the incident to authorities the day after it occurred. The two had been involved in a brief relationship years ago.
Allegations and Incident Details
According to an offense report filed by the Kern County Sheriff’s Office (KCSO), the events unfolded on March 26, 2024. That night, Wells had been drinking at a bar with friends when he texted the victim, asking if he could come over. She repeatedly refused, reminding him that his girlfriend would not approve. Despite this, Wells allegedly arrived at her home uninvited.
The victim reported hearing knocking at multiple entrances of her home, including the front door, side door, and bedroom’s sliding glass door. Shortly after, Wells allegedly entered through a side door without permission.
Once inside, he reportedly went to her bedroom, pulled down her underwear, and attempted to force himself on her. The victim stated that she clearly told him "no" multiple times before and during the incident. She managed to fight him off, eventually kicking him away due to his intoxicated state. She then threatened to call 911, at which point Wells left.
Medical Exam and Investigation
The victim, who also admitted to drinking that night, underwent a medical exam later that week, which revealed injuries consistent with sexual assault. Since the incident, she has been granted a protective order and has reported experiencing mental distress and weight loss in the months following.
Wells has denied all allegations, claiming that he went home after leaving the bar. However, phone records place him at the victim’s residence at the time of the reported assault.
Court Proceedings and Next Steps
Wells appeared in court on February 3, 2025, for his felony arraignment, where he entered a not guilty plea. He is scheduled to return to court on April 29 as the case moves forward.
Authorities continue their investigation as the legal process unfolds.
