Esau Martinez Pleads Not Guilty To Third Degree Sexual Abuse Of A Minor
A Casper man is accused of touching a minor inappropriately.
Esau Martinez has pleaded not guilty to one charge of third degree sexual abuse of a minor.
Investigators with the Casper Police Department say in middle May 2016, Martinez was staying overnight at a residence, and the victim claimed he entered her room and started to touch her.
He then told the victim not to tell anybody.
When interviewed, Martinez first said he had no memory and has had blackouts as a result of head injuries.
He later stated he had gone into the victim's room, but denied touching her.
He then jokingly said "I'll tell you the truth. I'm a chimo," and also made a joking reference to being a member of a Mexican cartel.
In a second interview, it was discovered that Martinez had made contact with the victim admitting his guilt, was drunk and was coming down off of a high, and told investigators that the Devil was responsible, that he was not a chimo, and that he feared deportation.
Police were able to obtain a screen shot of a text message from Martinez to the victim, saying he was guilty
Martinez is awaiting trial on $15,000 bond and could face up to 15 years in prison if convicted.