Laredo man gets 40-year sentence for child sexual assault

EDINBURG, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A Laredo man was sentenced to 40 years in prison on Monday.

Robert Xavier Rodriguez, Jr. will spend 40 years in prison after being found guilty of sexually assaulting a 9-year-old child.

Robert Xavier Rodriguez, Jr., 49, was found guilty on Aug. 27 of aggravated sexual assault of a child, a first-degree felony.

The investigation began on Jan. 2, 2017 after the Edinburg Police Department received a report involving Rodriguez and a minor child, according to Hidalgo County's news release.

During the course of the investigation, police determined Rodriguez had sexually abused a 9-year-old child.

During the trial, the jury heard evidence and emotional testimony detailing the abuse.

“This case reflects our unwavering commitment to protecting the most vulnerable in our community,” said Hidalgo County District Attorney Toribio “Terry” Palacios. “We will continue to pursue justice for victims of these heinous crimes and ensure that offenders like Rodriguez are held accountable.”

The successful prosecution was the result of a joint effort by the Edinburg Police Department, the Hidalgo County District Attorney’s Office, and the Children’s Advocacy Center of Hidalgo and Starr Counties.