Las Cruces Police: 61-Year-Old Man Allegedly Rapes 7-Year-Old

Las Cruces police have arrested a 61-year-old man on charges of allegedly raping and illegally touching a 7-year-old girl, according to police officials

Guillermo Gonzalez, of 3236 E. Missouri Ave., has been charged with four first-degree felony counts of criminal sexual penetration of a minor and three third-degree felony counts of criminal sexual contact of a minor.

On Monday, May 23, the girl’s mother contacted Las Cruces police after she suspected that Gonzalez may have had inappropriate contact with her daughter and her son. Gonzalez was a friend of the family and lived in their home from October 2010 until April of this year, according to police.

Police officials said that during forensic interviews this week the girl confirmed that Gonzalez did have inappropriate contact with her. Las Cruces police detectives are continuing their investigation and additional charges are possible.

Gonzalez is being held at the Dona Ana County Detention Center with a cash-only bond set at $100,000.

Las Cruces police suggest to the community that anyone who suspects inappropriate contact has occurred should call 911 immediately or Las Cruces Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). Anonymous tips also can be sent via text message to LCTIPS (528477).