EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) – A Deming couple was arrested on Friday, Feb. 21, for the alleged child abuse of multiple children and other sex crimes, the New Mexico State Police (NMSP) said.
NMSP said Valerie Cordell, 41, was charged with 16 counts of child abuse and one count of conspiracy to commit child abuse. Melvin Cordell, 50, was charged with 16 counts of child abuse, two counts of criminal sexual penetration, one count of criminal sexual contact of a minor, and one count of conspiracy to commit child abuse.
The couple was arrested on Friday, and booked into the Luna County Detention Center, NMSP said.
NMSP said agents learned that a report was made to the Children, Youth and Families Department (CYFD) regarding “abuse of a child and multiple siblings.”
Throughout the investigation, agents learned that multiple children were living in “horrific conditions,” and sleeping outdoors, creating a risk to their health and safety, NMSP said.
NMSP said the investigation also revealed that at least one of the children was sexually abused.
“The New Mexico State Police is dedicated to ensuring the safety of all New Mexicans by enforcing the law and upholding justice to create safer communities,” read the news release. “We place strong emphasis on protecting our most vulnerable citizens, especially children — by vigorously pursuing those who commit crimes against them and ensuring they receive the justice and protection they deserve.”
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