EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14/CBS4) — A man accused of sexually assaulting two teens has been sentenced to probation with the possibility of prison if violated.
Manuel Padilla is accused of sexually assaulting two teen ages 12 and 15 mutliple times from August 2022 to June 2023.
According to police documents, Padilla claimed the inappropriate touching was accidental.
However, during a court hearing on January 29th, Padilla pleaded guilty.
According to the El Paso County District Attorney’s Office, Padilla was sentenced to probation with up to 20 years of prison if he violates it.
He is also required to register as a sex offender.
The following statement is attributable to District Attorney James Montoya:
After evaluating the specific facts and circumstances of the cases, including the exclusion of key evidence, and discussing the advantages and disadvantages of proceeding to trial with the victims, our Office determined that this outcome appropriately holds the Defendant accountable. That discussion included the necessity of victims recounting their experiences to a jury of strangers and the possibility of acquittal. This resolution places the Defendant under supervision without subjecting the victims to the rigors of a jury trial and cross-examination. The Defendant will be required to register as a sex offender for the remainder of his natural life, and any violation of the terms of his supervision could result in a sentence of up to 20 years’ imprisonment.
RELATED: El Paso man arrested, accused of sexually assaulting two teenagers on multiple occasions
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