Written by: Sam Orlando
EL PASO - A shocking revelation has emerged as an El Paso police officer was arrested this week after being indicted on a staggering 27 counts of indecency with a child and aggravated sexual assault of a child. Officer Eric Bernardino Ramirez, a patrol officer assigned to the Pebble Hills Regional Command, now faces a grave legal battle that spans at least three years, according to jail records.
The indictment, handed down on December 21, culminated in Ramirez's arrest on Monday, sending shockwaves through the El Paso community. Startlingly, the alleged child molestation is believed to have started before Ramirez even joined the El Paso Police Department six years ago, raising concerns about the potential abuse of power and the safety of children during his tenure.
In response to the arrest, Ramirez has been relieved of duty pending an internal investigation. The El Paso Police Department claim they are fully committed to conducting a thorough examination of the allegations and ensuring that justice is served.
The indictment against Ramirez encompasses one count of continuous sexual abuse of a child under the age of 14, allegedly occurring as far back as 2014. Additionally, he faces 11 counts of indecency with a child and 15 counts of aggravated sexual assault of a child, as detailed in El Paso County Jail records. The alleged incidents of child indecency and sexual assaults are reported to have taken place between 2014 and 2016.
To protect the identity of the victims, the connection between the child or children and Ramirez has not been disclosed at this time. Authorities say they are working diligently to support and protect the victims involved while gathering evidence to build a strong case against the accused officer.
Ramirez's arrest and subsequent release on a split-bond of $1,140,000 have left the community reeling, highlighting the urgency of addressing child abuse and ensuring the safety and well-being of the most vulnerable members of society.
As this case progresses, it is imperative that the justice system remains steadfast in its pursuit of truth and accountability. The El Paso Police Department, along with local authorities, say they are committed to providing support to the victims, upholding the law, and maintaining transparency throughout the investigation. It is up to the community to insure those promises are kept.
The allegations against Officer Eric Bernardino Ramirez serve as a stark reminder of the importance of rigorous screening and continuous oversight within law enforcement agencies. The El Paso community expects those tasked with protecting them to uphold the highest standards of integrity and ensure the safety of all individuals, particularly children.
The journey towards justice for the victims and the restoration of trust within the community will undoubtedly be a challenging one. However, the resilience and determination of law enforcement and community members alike will play a vital role in ensuring that those who commit such heinous acts are held accountable and that no child's innocence is ever violated with impunity.
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