A former Webb County Sheriff's deputy, aged 27, has been charged with allegedly violating a victim's right to bodily integrity and privacy, along with falsifying records. The charges were announced by U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani.
Ignacio Rodriguez IV is set to appear before U.S. Magistrate Judge Christopher dos Santos on January 9 at 9:41 am.
The charges stem from a sealed two-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury on January 7, which was unsealed following Rodriguez's arrest.
According to the indictment, Rodriguez allegedly stopped a car on September 1, 2024, while performing his duties and sexually assaulted the driver. He reportedly threatened the use of a firearm and committed acts of kidnapping, bodily injury, aggravated sexual abuse, and abusive sexual contact. Additionally, he is accused of turning off his body-worn camera and dash camera during the incident to obstruct justice.
If found guilty, Rodriguez could face life imprisonment for the civil rights violation and up to 20 years for falsification of records. The charges also include potential fines up to $250,000.
The FBI and Laredo Police Department are leading the investigation into these allegations. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Leslie Ann Cortez and Brandon Scott Bowling are prosecuting the case.
It is important to note that an indictment serves as a formal accusation rather than evidence of guilt. A defendant remains presumed innocent until proven guilty through due legal process.