Santa Monica, CA– A piano instructor from Van Nuys has been taken into custody on several felony charges following revelations of prolonged sexual abuse involving a 13-year-old student, according to an announcement from Santa Monica Police.
Detectives from the SMPD initiated an investigation into 41-year-old Hovanes John Jihanyan on November 19, after receiving a report regarding potential child abuse. Police report that Jihanyan began sexual activities with the student in July 2024, when the student was 13 years old.
The reported events occurred at the student’s residence, inside Jihanyan’s car, and at his music studio located in the French Conservatory of Music in Beverly Hills.
On December 12, 2024, law enforcement officials, aided by both uniformed and undercover personnel, carried out search and arrest warrants in Encino, resulting in the apprehension of Jihanyan.
He faced multiple serious charges, including inappropriate behavior towards a child under 14, ongoing sexual abuse of a minor, sexual assault with a notable age difference, possession of illicit materials involving minors, and exploitation of a minor.
Officials have verified that Jihanyan has not been involved in any criminal activities before. The individual is still in custody while preparations are underway for the case to be submitted to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office on December 16, 2024.
The Santa Monica Police Department is looking for more details regarding Jihanyan or any possible victims. If you have any information, please reach out to Detective Lizette Hard at (310) 458-2256, Sgt. David Haro at (310) 458-8952, or the Watch Commander desk, available 24/7, at (310) 458-8427.