Las Cruces Police Say Man Beat Young Boy

A 30-year-old man police suspect of allegedly physically assaulting a young boy on May 30 at a community swimming pool has been arrested, according to Las Cruces Police.

Felipe Juarez Jr., 30, was arrested Monday evening and is charged with one third-degree felony count of child abuse.

Las Cruces Police said that on May 30 a 12-year-old boy was playing with friends near a swimming pool at the Picacho Vista Mobile Home Park when he was approached by a man holding a bottle of tequila. The man, later identified as Juarez, began yelling at the boy and tried to keep him from entering the pool, according to police.

Juarez then allegedly shoved the boy and started to punch the boy in the face and neck. Police said Juarez then fled the area.

The 12-year-old had visible bruising to his face that required medical attention.

On Monday, June 4, police were again called when the boy was traveling with his parents and spotted Juarez walking in the mobile home park. The boy?s father and older brother temporarily detained Juarez until officers arrived and took Juarez into custody.

Juarez was booked into the Dona Ana County Detention Center with bond set at $5,000.