South Lake Tahoe, Calif. — A man convicted in El Dorado County of molesting a child failed to appear for his sentencing and is now considered a fugitive, prosecutors said this week. Carl W. Cacconie, 51, was found guilty July 17 of six counts of committing lewd acts on a child under 14. He had been out of custody on $1 million bail pending sentencing set for Aug. 25, but did not show up in court, according to the El Dorado County District Attorney’s Office.
The two-week trial was held in Department 3 of El Dorado County Superior Court in South Lake Tahoe before Judge Michael J. McLaughlin. After the verdict, the judge found aggravating factors—including that the victim was particularly vulnerable and that the offenses involved planning and sophistication. Cacconie faced a maximum of 18 years in state prison at sentencing, court officials said.
Officials urged the public to call 911 with tips and warned against trying to intervene. “Do not attempt to approach or apprehend him on your own,” the district attorney’s office said.
Trial evidence showed Cacconie molested a girl he knew over several months in 2014 and 2015. Jurors also heard testimony from another victim who described similar abuse in the early 2000s. The case originated on the county’s west slope and was moved to South Lake Tahoe due to courtroom availability.
Before trial, Cacconie lived in San Mateo County, the DA’s office said. Anyone who sees him should contact local law enforcement immediately.
“El Dorado County residents should be proud of the courage shown by the survivors who testified,” “These survivors showed extraordinary bravery in coming forward.”
District Attorney Vern Pierson said after the conviction.
