Jury chosen in child sexual abuse case in Bowie County

Delgado, Leonardo
Delgado, Leonardo

NEW BOSTON, Texas --Testimony is expected to begin Wednesday morning at the Bowie County courthouse for a man accused of sexual misconduct with a young girl.

Leonardo Hernandez Delgado, 67, turned down an offer from the state for a 15-year sentence in exchange for a guilty plea to indecency with a child by sexual contact. Delgado's lawyer, Michael Friedman of Texarkana, discussed Delgado's decision to reject the plea offer at a pretrial hearing Monday before 5th District Judge Bill Miller.

Delgado faces two to 20 years in prison if convicted.

Friedman also brought up Delgado's need for a Spanish language interperter at trial. Friedman said while Delgado speaks and understands most of what he says, there are times when Delgado struggles with English. Miller said a translator is scheduled to be in court with Delgado throughout the trial.

A jury was selected Tuesday in proceedings before Miller at the Bowie County courthouse in New Boston. Opening statements and testimony are expected to begin Wednesday.

Delgado is charged in connection with an investigation by Bowie County Sheriff's Office which began in April 2020. According to a probable cause affidavit, Delgado allegedly touched the girl inappropriately at a house in New Boston.

He is free on a $50,000 bond.

Assistant District Attorney Katie Carter is prosecuting.

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