Letter to Santa Leads to Molestation Charges in Texas

There is something especially sad about a child having to incorporate cries for help into a letter to Santa Claus, but that is exactly what seems to have occurred at Cesar Chavez elementary school in Pharr, Texas. The letter was submitted during some kind of school-related activity, although it is unclear at this point whether it was part of an assignment - or just a "fun" activity. Eventually, the letter made its way through the appropriate channels within the school and the local authorities were alerted.

A local Children's Advocacy group interviewed the child the next day, and the man was arrested and charged at that time. According to the official filing documents, police believe that the molestation occurred over a 4-year period and involved the 55-year-old suspect and at least the girl and her sister. The man is Andres Enrique Cantu and he is being held on $100,000 bond in the Hidalgo County Jail in Texas. Cantu is a relative of the children, but the relationship has not been released by investigators in an attempt to shield the identity of the children involved.

It is extremely important to understand that - at this time - Mr. Cantu has not been convicted of this crime and it is unclear if he has any prior criminal record. Regardless of the outcome of the legal proceedings, extremely difficult times are ahead for all involved and our only hope is that the truth is determined and appropriate actions are taken to address the situation.