U.S. Attorney's Office Secures Guilty Plea in Child Sexual Abuse Case

ALBUQUERQUE – A San Felipe man pleaded guilty in federal court to sexually abusing an 11-year-old girl on tribal lands.

According to court documents, Vernon Chavez, 62, an enrolled member of the Pueblo of San Felipe, admitted that between August 1 and August 15, 2022, he intentionally touched an 11-year-old girl through her clothing with the intent to gratify his sexual desire. The abuse occurred within the exterior boundaries of the San Felipe Pueblo.

In his plea agreement, Chavez acknowledged that he knew the victim was approximately 11 years old at the time of the offense.

Chavez was detained pending sending, which has not been set. At sentencing, Chavez faces 10-15 years in federal prison. There is no parole in the federal system.

U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez made the announcement today.

The Bureau of Indian Affairs investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Jesse Pecoraro is prosecuting the case.

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