Illegal Immigrant Sentenced for Sexual Assault in Iowa
In a shocking case that has rocked the community of Sioux Center, Iowa, an illegal immigrant has been sentenced for sexual assault on a coworker. Onofre Bernardo Mendez, a 47-year-old man from Sioux Center, Iowa, was found guilty of Assault With Intent To Commit Sex Abuse, an Aggravated Misdemeanor. The incident took place on February 2, 2024, about a mile southeast of Sioux Center, when Mendez sexually assaulted his coworker in his old Ford pickup truck.
Details of the Crime
Bernardo Mendez, who served as the victim’s employment supervisor, began giving the victim rides home on days when they had to stay late. On one occasion, Mendez used force to sexually assault the victim in his 1998 Ford Ranger pickup truck, despite the victim not consenting to the act. Shockingly, during the investigation, Mendez tried to bribe the victim with cash to prevent them from cooperating with the authorities.
Sentence and Possible Deportation
After being arrested on February 22, Mendez posted a $10,000 bond but was turned over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for removal proceedings. On April 15, 2024, Mendez pled guilty to the amended count of Assault With Intent to Commit Sexual Abuse and was sentenced to 25 days in the Sioux County Jail. Following his jail term, Mendez will be returned to ICE custody for removal proceedings from the United States. Additionally, Mendez was ordered to register as a sex offender for life, be supervised for 10 years as if on parole, pay various criminal fines and surcharges, and have no contact with the victim for the next five years.
Closing Thoughts
As this case demonstrates, it is essential for all individuals, regardless of their immigration status, to be held accountable for their actions. The safety and well-being of all members of our community should be a top priority, and justice must be served to ensure that such crimes do not go unpunished. It is crucial for law enforcement agencies to work together to investigate and prosecute cases of sexual assault promptly and effectively. Let us hope that this case serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding the rule of law and protecting the rights of all individuals, no matter their background or circumstances.
