Arizona man fakes Down syndrome, hires caregivers to bathe him, change his diapers

GILBERT, Ariz. -- (KNXV) -- A Gilbert man was arrested for pretending to have Down syndrome and hiring caregivers to bathe him and change his diapers. Police say they arrested 31-year-old Paul Anthony Menchaca on September 6 at his home near Val Vista Drive and Williams Field Road.

Menchaca reportedly posed as "Amy" and hired a caregiver to bathe and change the diapers of "her" son with Down syndrome. The first victim later reported to police that she assisted Menchaca with diaper changes and baths on 30 occasions over the summer. These happened at various locations in the East Valley.

A second and third victim took over caregiving duties starting in July. Police say the three victims all know each other, and all said Menchaca would become sexually aroused as he was being bathed.

At one point, the first victim became suspicious and followed Menchaca to his actual home, after he was dropped off by another caregiver. She knocked on the door and met Menchaca's parents, then discovered he does not have Down syndrome or need diapers.

Menchaca, who listed his employment as a school crossing guard, has been charged with fraudulent schemes and sexual abuse.