Deverne Torres, Jr., an enrolled member of the Mescalero Apache Tribe, pleaded guilty on Mar. 13 to engaging in sexual acts with a minor who had not reached the age of 16.
The case highlights ongoing efforts by federal authorities to address crimes involving minors in tribal communities. According to court documents, Torres, 45, committed multiple sex acts with Jane Doe between December 2019 and February 2021.
Torres admitted guilt to the charge of sexual abuse of a minor and now faces up to 15 years in prison at sentencing. The announcement was made by First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office.
The investigation was conducted by the Las Cruces Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office with assistance from the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tanisha V. Henson and Kirk Williams are prosecuting the case.
Authorities are seeking additional information regarding other potential victims. The Bureau of Indian Affairs has asked anyone with relevant information to contact them at (575) 464-4479.
