A man from Mescalero, New Mexico, has been charged in federal court with aggravated sexual abuse and sexual abuse of a minor. According to court documents, Deverne Torres, Jr., 45, a member of the Mescalero Apache Tribe, is accused of engaging in sexual acts with a minor over several years.
The investigation began after the Bureau of Indian Affairs received a report in February 2021. A witness claimed to have seen Torres kissing and touching a minor and said that Torres threatened them to remain silent. During an interview, the victim reported that Torres started the alleged abuse when they were under 12 years old.
Torres remains in custody as he awaits trial. If convicted, he could face up to life in prison.
Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office, announced the charges. The case is being investigated by the Las Cruces Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office with help from the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jackson Dering is prosecuting.
Authorities are asking anyone with information or who may be another victim to contact the Bureau of Indian Affairs at (575) 464-4479.
“A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.”
