A former Los Angeles police officer convicted of a lewd act on a child was sentenced to three years in state prison.

Miguel Angel Schiappapietra, a six-year veteran of the LAPD, pleaded no contest to a lewd act on a child and an attempted lewd act on another child. The two victims were sisters who lived near Schiappapietra’s home in Castaic.


The victims’ father, who spoke in court prior to the sentencing, said he did not believe Schiappapietra’s sentence was long enough. The father, a firefighter who didn’t give his name, said he expected more from a fellow public service employee.

Schiappapietra, he said, “knew I would be there for his wife and family when he was away at work protecting citizens. And I expected the same from him.”


Nonetheless, the victim’s father said he forgave Schiappapietra for what he did to his children and hoped he would get the help he needs.

“My family and I are going to move on,” he said, adding that he hoped Schiappapietra and his wife “can do the same.”


Schiappapietra, who resigned from the LAPD last month while the criminal case was pending, also addressed the court. Though his words were nearly inaudible, he apologized to the victims’ family.

“I have for some time wanted to say sorry for all the hurt I have caused,” he said.


He expressed a desire to change his life, and “do what needs to be done.”

Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Michael D. Abzug said it was “a sad situation all the way around.”


Schiappapietra was led out of court in handcuffs.

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jill.cowan@latimes.com


Twitter: @jillcowan