Karate instructor charged with rape; more victims possible

NEWARK, Del. (WPVI) -- A Delaware karate instructor is charged with multiple counts of rape, and police are concerned there may be other victims out there.

Detectives say 28-year-old Carlos Villa sexually abused a child for months beginning in December 2010.

Police recently found out when the child told an adult back in March.

They also learned of another incident, involving one of Villa's family members.

"They are minors," said Cpl. Tracey Duffy of New Castle County Police. "Both of the victims are under the age of 12."

Investigators are worried there are other victims because of Villa's role as a karate instructor.

Investigators are only releasing limited information to protect the victims. Police wouldn't confirm where Villa works, but said it is a karate studio in Newark along Kirkwood Highway.

"We are not exactly sure what his employment is, if it was part-time or volunteer, but we know he had access to children," Duffy said.

Villa, of the 1700 block of Coventry Lane in Newark, is being held on $220,000 bail.

Officers say the alleged crimes didn't take place at Villa's place of employment but at the victims' homes.

They are asking anyone with information to come forward.

"We will make sure their identity is not released and make sure they have nothing to worry about. No harm will come to them by reporting this to someone they trust," said Duffy.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Herrera-Cortes of the Criminal Investigation Unit at (302) 395-8110, call Delaware Crime Stoppers at (800) TIP-3333.