Cobre High School Teacher Arrested in Deming Sting Operation
DEMING – District Attorney Michael R. Renteria has announced the arrest of Cobre High School art teacher Romaine Begay on charges of Child Solicitation by Electronic Communication Device and Attempted Criminal Sexual Penetration of a Minor.
The arrest followed a joint sting operation involving the District Attorney’s Office, U.S. Homeland Security Investigations, and the Deming Police Department.
Authorities say Begay engaged in an online chat with what he believed to be a 14-year-old child, describing explicit sexual acts and stating his intention to sketch the minor. Begay arranged to meet the child at a Deming apartment, where he was met by law enforcement instead. Upon his arrest, police found condoms, a sketch pad, and art supplies in his possession.
Begay, who teaches art at Cobre High School, is also a recognized artist with works displayed at venues like the Santa Fe Indian Market.
If convicted on state charges, Begay could face up to 4.5 years in prison, though District Attorney Renteria noted that federal prosecution could lead to a much longer sentence. Renteria emphasized the strong collaboration between his office, HSI, and Deming Police in the case and encouraged anyone with additional information to contact his office at 575-388-1941.
Begay is currently being held in the Luna County Detention Center.