Paragould Suspect Accused of Sexual Assault with Teen

PARAGOULD, Ark. — A suspect is accused of having an inappropriate relationship with a minor and faces a felony sexual assault charge in Paragould.

On March 18, Paragould authorities were made aware of a relationship between the defendant and an alleged victim under the age of 16, the probable cause affidavit states.

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On March 19, the alleged victim was interviewed at the police department by the Arkansas State Police Crimes Against Children Division. During a forensic interview, the juvenile disclosed acts constituting fourth-degree sexual assault.

5-14-127. Sexual assault in the fourth degree.
(a) A person commits sexual assault in the fourth degree if the person:
(1) Being twenty (20) years of age or older:
(A) Engages in sexual intercourse or deviate sexual activity with another person who is:
(i) Less than sixteen (16) years of age; and
(ii) Not the person’s spouse; or
(B) Engages in sexual contact with another person who is:
(i) Less than sixteen (16) years of age; and
(ii) Not the person’s spouse; or
(1) Sexual assault in the fourth degree under subdivisions (a)(1)(A) and (a)(2) of this section is a Class D felony.’

– A.C.A. § 5-14-127, Class D Felony

The suspect was interviewed and allegedly gave self-incriminating statements after being read his Miranda rights.

Devon Sanchez, 23, of Paragould, faces a charge of Sexual Assault in the Fourth Degree, a Class D felony. Jail records show his bail was set at $25,000.

All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.