17-year-old Lake City male accused of sexually assaulting two children
Jan. 26—LAKE CITY, Minn. — A 17-year-old Lake City male has been accused of sexually assaulting two children under 14 years of age, according to a Wabasha County court report.
Elias Humberto Perez Gonzalez made his initial appearance via Zoom on Thursday, Jan. 25, in Wabasha County District Court before Judge Christopher Neisen.
Although Gonzalez is a minor, he was charged as an adult on two felony counts of criminal sexual conduct with a 7-year-old female and a 10-year-old male. The maximum sentence for each charge is 30 years in prison.
Due to his age, Gonzalez is in custody at Prairie Lakes Youth Programs, a juvenile detention center in Willmar, Minnesota.
His next court appearance is scheduled for Jan. 31, 2024.
According to the complaint:
Around Nov. 22, 2023, a Lake City police officer observed two forensic interviews conducted by a Wabasha County social worker. The interview consisted of graphic events that took place in Lake City over a six-month period.
The first interview was of a 7-year-old girl. During the interview, she stated that on three occasions Gonzalez engaged in intercourse with her.
The second interview was of a 10-year-old boy. During the interview, he stated that Gonzalez engaged in intercourse with him. The boy said Gonzalez told him not to talk about what had happened.
"The children's mother learned about the incidents at a family event the weekend before the forensic interview. The children's father then confronted Gonzalez. Gonzalez was reported missing school afterwards and his whereabouts were unknown at the time of the interview. The mother told law enforcement that Gonzalez had family in Virginia and she was afraid that he would flee there and then to Mexico or South America where he has family," the report said.
Those experiencing sexual exploitation can call a 24-hour crisis line at 507-289-0636 to speak to someone who can direct you towards help.
