Former LEO charged with civil rights violations

McALLEN, Texas – A former local police officer has been taken into custody for allegedly sexually assaulting two men while in custody, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.

Matthew Lee Sepulveda, 24, Edinburg, was a former law enforcement officer with the Progreso Police Department, serving from April 17 to July 2 of this year.

The criminal complaint filed under seal yesterday was unsealed today upon his arrest. He is expected to make his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Scott Hacker Monday.  

The charges allege Sepulveda violated the civil rights of two individuals while acting under his authority as a uniformed police officer. Specifically, he allegedly performed oral sex on two men while they were in his custody. 

If convicted, Sepulveda faces up to life in federal prison.

The FBI conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarina S. DiPiazza is prosecuting the case.

A criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence.
A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.