DEMING – A former Deming police officer, who admitted to having sex with a teen girl and recording it, pleaded guilty to federal child pornography charges.
KOB-TV has reported that prosecutors say Jesus Lopez Jr. used his badge to lure a 16-year-old girl into a sexual relationship that turned violent. The victim said Lopez would force her to drink alcohol, force her to have sex while recording it on his phone. Then, he allegedly hit her and pointed his department-issued rifle at her.
According to prosecutors, Jesus Lopez Jr. used his position as an officer to gain the teen’s trust and engage in conduct that later resulted in federal charges. Court documents state that the situation became increasingly serious, ultimately leading to his arrest in December. Investigators also reported that the teen described several incidents where Lopez’s actions escalated into threatening and unsafe behavior, which prompted the federal case.
Lopez’s guilty plea comes after months of investigation involving local and federal authorities. Newly released law enforcement footage showed his arrest and has been part of the ongoing legal process.
A judge will determine Lopez’s sentence at a later date. Following his release, he will be required to register as a sex offender. Federal prosecutors say the case serves as a reminder that no one is above the law and that community safety remains the top priority.
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