News Releases

Business Owner Charged with Multiple Counts of Assault

For Immediate Release: Friday, August 2, 2024

Gaithersburg, MD - The Montgomery County Department of Police has arrested 56-year-old Jose Melvin Mendoza, the owner of Passion Bakery Café located in the 2200 block of Bel Pre Road, Silver Spring.

Mendoza's arrest follows an investigation into multiple allegations of inappropriate touching during business hours.

Members of the Fourth District – Patrol Investigations Unit received reports from several victims who alleged they were inappropriately touched by Mendoza at the bakery. Following these reports and the subsequent investigation, an arrest warrant was issued for Mendoza.

Mendoza has been charged with 13 counts of second-degree assault, two counts of fourth-degree sex offense – sexual contact and one count of fourth-degree sex offense by a person in position of authority

Mendoza is currently out on an unsecured personal bond. Detectives believe there may be additional victims. Anyone with information is urged to contact detectives at the Fourth District – Patrol Investigations Unit at 240-773-5476.

Additionally, anyone with information regarding this suspect is asked to visit the Crime Solvers of Montgomery County, MD website at www.crimesolversmcmd.org and click on the "www.p3tips.com" link at the top of the page or call 1-866-411-8477. Tips leading to an arrest may be eligible for a reward ranging from $250 to $10,000. Tips may remain anonymous.

# # #

Release ID: 24-347
Media Contact: S.D. Goff 
Categories: sexual-offense