A Deming, New Mexico police officer has pleaded guilty to federal charges involving the sexual exploitation of a child. The plea follows an investigation by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the New Mexico State Police.
Jesus Lopez Jr., 35, admitted to participating in and recording several sexually explicit acts with a minor. As part of his plea agreement, Lopez faces a prison sentence ranging from five to 15 years, at least five years of supervised release after serving his sentence, and will be required to register as a sex offender.
“It is especially disturbing when those sworn to protect exploit the most vulnerable,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations El Paso Special Agent in Charge Jason T. Stevens. “Investigating child predators is a top priority for HSI, and I commend the agents assigned to this case for their diligence and dedication to keeping our children safe, regardless of whether the perpetrator wears a badge.”
The investigation was conducted jointly by ICE’s Homeland Security Investigations unit in El Paso and state law enforcement officials.
