Houston, TX — A National Center for Missing & Exploited Children CyberTip led to criminal charges against two Houston relatives in a child exploitation investigation involving young girls, according to Harris County court records.
Esmeralda Torres is charged with Sexual Performance by a Child. Her cousin, Yordi B. Cruz, faces separate charges of Possession of Visual Material Depicting Sexual Assault of a Child Younger Than 10.
The investigation began after a CyberTip involving suspected child sexual abuse material, or CSAM, was assigned to a Houston Police Department investigator in March.
Investigators eventually identified Cruz in connection with the material and searched his Houston residence in August. According to court documents, investigators found numerous photos and videos involving young girls on his phone.
Cruz allegedly identified Torres as the person who sent him at least some of the material.
Investigators later interviewed Torres. Court documents allege she admitted taking and sending some photos and videos involving the children. Authorities also reviewed messages between Torres and Cruz that investigators allege showed Torres was aware of Cruz's sexual interest in children.
Cruz was arrested August 13. Court records show he faces two active cases on the same charge, with bond set at $50,000 in each case. He has posted both bonds.
Torres remains jailed on a $60,000 bond, according to court records.
REPORT CHILD EXPLOITATION
Suspected online child sexual exploitation can be reported to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children.
NCMEC: 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678)
If a child is in immediate danger, call 911.
The charges are allegations. Torres and Cruz are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.