Polk County, MN (trfnews.i234.me)—On January 8, 2025, law enforcement authorities in Polk County arrested Brian Lee Espinoza, born May 1, 1991, on charges of first-degree criminal sexual conduct under Minnesota Statute 609.342.1(f)(i). This statute pertains to sexual penetration or contact with a person under 13 years of age, where the actor is more than 36 months older than the complainant, and the act involves an accomplice who uses force or coercion.
Details of the Charge:
- Statute: Minnesota Statute 609.342.1(f)(i)
- Description: Engaging in sexual penetration or contact with a person under 13 years of age, with an accomplice using force or coercion.
- Penalty: Conviction can result in imprisonment for up to 30 years, a fine of up to $40,000, or both. The court presumes an executed sentence of 144 months (12 years) unless a longer mandatory minimum sentence is required by law.
Legal Proceedings:
As of this report, Espinoza is in custody awaiting formal charges and subsequent court proceedings. An arrest does not imply guilt, and Espinoza is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
About Minnesota Statute 609.342:
Minnesota Statute 609.342 defines first-degree criminal sexual conduct, detailing various circumstances under which the offense applies, including situations involving victims under 13 years of age and the use of force or coercion by an accomplice.
Next Steps:
Individuals charged under this statute face severe legal consequences if convicted. The legal process will include arraignment, potential plea negotiations, and possibly a trial to determine guilt or innocence.
Public Information:
For more information on criminal sexual conduct laws in Minnesota, refer to the official publication by the Minnesota House of Representatives.
I’m Chris Harper, reporting for trfnews.i234.me