Visalia Man Sentenced to Life in Prison for Rape and Violent Sex Crimes

Today in Department 10 of the Tulare County Superior Court, Visalia Division, Judge Kathryn Montejano sentenced John Lambert, age 37, to 75 years-to-life in prison for sexual assault. On December 7, 2018, Lambert pleaded no contest to forcible rape, forcible oral copulation, and three counts of forcible digital penetration. Each count is a felony and each was found true for the special allegation that a deadly weapon was used.

On June 10, 2015, the victim had been hired as a housekeeper at a transitional living home. Lambert asked her to clean his shared room. When she entered, he locked the door behind her and threatened her with a knife. During a brief struggle, the victim was able to get the knife away and throw it down. Angered, Lambert punched the victim in the face three times and viciously sexually assaulted her. The assault was interrupted by Lambert’s roommate knocking at the door. The victim used the opportunity to escape and Lambert was taken in to custody soon after.

In the court sentencing report, the victim stated that the sentence is fair for the safety of others in the community and thanked law enforcement for their efforts and work in the case.

The case was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Erica Gonzalez and investigated by Sergeant Dan Ford of the Visalia Police Department.

Media inquiries can be directed to the Office of the District Attorney, County of Tulare Assistant District Attorney Dave Alavezos (559) 636-5494