Ad
Court indicts San Felipe man for sexually abusing child
Published
Modified
It was announced May 7 that a San Felipe man was indicted for engaging in sexual acts and sexual contact with a child under the age of 12 years.
The indictment alleges that Vernon Chavez, 61, an enrolled member of the pueblo of San Felipe, engaged in the acts with a female child between Aug.1-15, 2022.
The indictment also states those sexual acts consisted of Chavez touching the child's buttocks through her clothing "with the intent to abuse, humiliate, harass, degrade, and arouse and gratify the sexual desire of any person."
Chavez is charged with one count each of aggravated sexual abuse and abusive sexual contact. A federal judge detained Chavez pending a detention hearing, which is scheduled for May 8.
If convicted of the current charges, Chavez faces a minimum of 30 years and up to life in prison.
