WILSON COUNTY JURY SENTENCES DANIEL LUIS RANGEL TO THREE LIFE TERMS AND A 20-YEAR PRISON SENTENCE FOR CHILD SEX ABUSE

On July 23, 2025, a jury in the 218th District Court, presided over by Judge Russell Wilson, found Daniel Luis Rangel guilty of multiple felony offenses involving the sexual abuse of a child. The jury convicted Rangel on the following charges:

• Two counts of Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child (punishable from 5 -99 years or Life in prison)

• One count of Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Child Under 14 (punishable with a minimum of 25 years up to Life in prison with no parole)

• One count of Indecency with a Child (punishable from 2 to 20 years in prison)

The jury sentenced Rangel to life imprisonment on each of the three most serious charges. For the Indecency with a Child conviction, the jury imposed the maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. All sentences will be served concurrently.

The courage shown by each victim in coming forward and testifying in open court cannot be overstated. Their strength and honesty were instrumental in achieving justice. As prosecutors, we are continually inspired by the bravery of child survivors who find the strength to speak their truth, even in the face of immense trauma. Their voices are powerful—and justice is only possible because of them. Because Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Child is a day-for-day sentence, this defendant is not eligible for parole and must serve a full life sentence.

We extend our sincere gratitude to Poth Chief of Police Gerald Sanchez for his leadership and dedication throughout the investigation and trial testimony. His work was essential in bringing this case to prosecution and securing these convictions. I am grateful for the hard work of Assistant District Attorneys Marc Ledet and Lorena Whitney, along with our behind the scenes team of legal assistants, investigators, and victim assistance coordinator. Their work can be challenging, but they are unwavering In their dedicatation, particularly to our child victims.

Finally, we thank the jurors who served in this case with wisdom, discernment, and unwavering commitment to justice. Because of their decision, Daniel Luis Rangel will never harm another child again.

Justice was served.

- Audrey Louis, 81st Judicial District Attorney

KARNES COUNTY - SEX OFFENDER’S PROBATION REVOKED – SENTENCED TO MAXIMUM 20 YEARS IN PRISON

Following a hearing on the State’s Motion to Revoke Probation, Jonathon Faseler has been sentenced to the maximum 20 years in prison for the offense of Sexual Assault of a Child, a second-degree felony under Texas law.

The case originated in 2018 after the victim’s father discovered inappropriate text messages from Faseler to his child. A subsequent investigation revealed that Faseler had been sexually abusing the victim over an extended period. Although Faseler admitted to sending the explicit messages, he denied any physical abuse. Based on the evidence, he was formally charged and later pleaded guilty to Sexual Assault of a Child.

On September 30, 2021, after careful consultation with the victim and their family, the State entered into a plea agreement placing Faseler on 10 years of deferred adjudication probation. His probation conditions included mandatory sex offender therapy, monitoring of all electronic devices, a prohibition on contact with the victim, and compliance with sex offender registration requirements.

Despite being given significant opportunities for rehabilitation, Faseler quickly began violating the terms of his probation. He missed required therapy sessions, sent explicit messages to other women, possessed an unmonitored phone, and even attempted to contact the victim. Confronted by the adult probation department, Faseler chose to flee the state rather than face accountability. He was located and arrested in Live Oak County, Texas on August 2, 2024, with active warrants from Karnes County and Montana, the latter for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.

Ahead of the revocation hearing, the adult probation department prepared a comprehensive 135-page pre-sentence investigation report, detailing Faseler’s numerous violations. The State argued that despite having access to all available rehabilitative resources, Faseler demonstrated a blatant disregard for the law and the terms of his probation. As a result, the State requested the maximum sentence allowable under law. Judge Dillingham agreed with the State’s position and sentenced Faseler to 20 years in prison.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Ryan Wright, who also secured a lifetime protective order to safeguard the victim from future contact. The Karnes County Sheriff’s Office is commended for its thorough initial investigation.

This week is the 2025 Pretrial, Probation, and Parole Supervision Office Week. This case truly highlights the exemplary work of our Community Service and Corrections Department (adult probation). They dedicate their careers to balancing improving outcomes for offenders and the public safety of our communities. In this case, we want to specifically thank Brittany Ibara, Valerie Campos, and Taylor Harbour, for the dedication to monitoring sex offenders. Their close supervision led to justice in this case.

Pleasanton Man Sentenced to 8 Years for Assault on Pregnant Woman

On May 28, 2025, an Atascosa County jury found Casey Arguijo guilty of Assault on a Pregnant Person, a third-degree felony with a punishment range of 2 to 10 years in prison with the possibility of probation. The defendant elected to have the judge decide his sentence. On July 23, 2025, Judge Jennifer Dillingham sentenced Casey Jones Arguijo to eight years in prison for the 2021 assault of his then-pregnant girlfriend.

During trial, jurors heard compelling testimony from the victim, who described the physical and emotional abuse she endured at the hands of Mr. Arguijo. She recounted how he held her down, twisted her arm, and threw a water bottle at her. She also testified that he physically harmed her pet, grabbing the cat by the neck, choking it, and throwing it against a wall. The victim further detailed a history of prior abuse, including incidents that left her with visible injuries such as a black eye and busted lip.

At the sentencing hearing, another former partner of Mr. Arguijo—who shares children with him—testified about similar patterns of abuse and controlling behavior she experienced during their relationship. Her current partner also provided testimony regarding Mr. Arguijo's troubling conduct. While Mr. Arguijo denied the allegations when he took the stand in his own defense, audio recordings presented in court contradicted his claims, capturing instances of verbal abuse directed at both witnesses. He stated he had changed since those recordings were made.

The District Attorney’s Office extends its sincere gratitude to the brave survivors who traveled from out of state to testify, ensuring accountability not only for their own experiences but for others who have endured similar abuse. To the jury for their undivided attention, listening to the testimony and evidence and holding this defendant responsible for his actions.

Special thanks are also extended to Amanda Villarreal of Safer Path Family Violence Shelter for providing expert testimony for the jury into the dynamics of domestic violence, to Officer Matthew DeLeon—formerly of the Pleasanton Police Department for his thorough investigation, and to Andrew Flores of the Adult Probation Office for his detailed presentence investigation report that helped guide the sentencing decision. Thank you, Assistant District Attorneys Erika Price and Audrey Vasquez Martinez, for working hard to seek justice in this case.

This case reflects the continued commitment of the District Attorney’s Office to pursuing justice for survivors of domestic violence and holding offenders accountable.

-Audrey Louis, 81st Judicial District Attorney

Child Molester Pleads to 33 Years

Yesterday, Billy Ray Price pleaded guilty to Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child and was sentenced to 33 years in prison. The plea agreement was entered just before jury selection was set to begin.

The case stems from the sexual abuse of two family members that occurred over a decade ago. One of the victims came forward during an unrelated police report and disclosed that Price had sexually assaulted her 17 years ago when she was a child. She also stated that she had told other family members at the time, but no formal report was made. During the investigation, she informed police that it was commonly known within the family that Price had also abused a second relative.

Kenedy Police subsequently interviewed the second victim, who confirmed that Price had sexually abused her as a child approximately 14 years ago. Law enforcement was able to verify that these allegations were known to family members, although there were no direct witnesses to the crimes. During an interview with investigators, Price claimed he could not remember whether he had assaulted the victims.

Following discussions with both victims, and in agreement with the terms of the plea deal, Judge Russell Wilson sentenced Price to 33 years in prison—one count of Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child for each victim. As part of the agreement, Price waived his right to appeal, and both victims were spared from having to testify in court. He will also be required to register as a sex offender for life, and the DA’s Office secured lifetime protective orders on behalf of each victim.

Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child is a first-degree felony in Texas. Defendants convicted of this offense must serve at least half of their sentence before becoming eligible for parole. Price, now 56 years old, will be nearly 70 before he can seek parole. It is the hope of the District Attorney’s Office that he serves the full 33-year sentence.

These cases are among the most challenging we handle—especially when the abuse goes unreported for many years. We commend the courage of the victims for speaking out when others failed to act. Their strength made this outcome possible.

The District Attorney’s Office extends its gratitude to Detective Jesse Pham and Sergeant Freddy Barrientez of the Kenedy Police Department for their dedicated work in bringing this case to a successful resolution. Assistant DA Ryan Wright prosecuted the case.

FORMER COTULLA HIGH SCHOOL TEACHER SENTENCED TO 10 YEARS

Former Cotulla High School teacher, Lance St. Germain, age 37, was sentenced to 10 years in prison following a conviction for engaging in an improper relationship with a student.

The sentence was handed down by Judge Russell Wilson in La Salle County District Court on July 2, 2025, following St. Germain’s guilty plea on April 14, 2025, for violating the law of Improper Relationship between Educator/Student, a second-degree felony under Texas law.

The investigation began in March of 2022 after students reported concerns about inappropriate conduct between St. Germain and a 17-year-old student. A joint investigation by the La Salle County Sheriff’s Office and the Cotulla ISD revealed that St. Germain engaged in an unlawful and inappropriate relationship with the student over a period of a few weeks, including sending and receiving explicit photos and sexual contact with the student within his school classroom.

St. Germain was immediately remanded into custody following his sentencing hearing. Thank you to La Salle County Sheriff’s Office Investigator Esmerelda Gonzalez for her thorough investigation, and First Assistant Leslie Carranza for ensuring justice for our student and her family.

When teachers cross the line with students, they violate the trust placed in them by students, colleagues, parents, and the entire school community. Such conduct demands full accountability.

CHARLES MORGAN SENTENCED TO 50 YEARS FOR 2021 MURDER IN ATASCOSA COUNTY

On April 2, 2025, Morgan pled guilty to murder for a maximum sentence of 50 years and requested the judge decide his punishment. On June 23, 2025, Judge Russell Wilson sentenced Charles Edward Morgan to 50 years in prison for the murder of Guadalupe Anguiano III, which occurred on September 6, 2021.

Morgan had been released from prison just one day before the incident and was staying with his mother, Heather Morgan. On the day of the offense, Morgan, his mother, the victim, and others living on the same property were cooking out together. Without warning and with no apparent motive, Morgan retrieved a shotgun and shot Anguiano in the chest at close range. He then fled the scene with his mother, attempting to reach Louisiana.

Multiple witnesses identified Morgan as the shooter, and both he and his mother were later apprehended by the Texas Department of Public Safety.

During the contested punishment hearing, the District Attorney’s Office presented evidence showing that Morgan had attempted to delay trial by feigning mental illness. Additionally, while at the mental health facility, the defendant and fellow residents made weapons using parts from an automatic blood pressure machine, created a riot situation, and threatened staff. He calculated violent attacks on other residents to the point that one requires continued neurological monitoring.

Even the defendant’s sister testified and described Guadalupe as most everyone did, as a sweet, kind, man.

The conviction and sentence were the result of a collaborative effort among law enforcement. The District Attorney’s Office extends its appreciation to the Atascosa County Sheriff’s Office, with special recognition to Lt. Gavin Lindsey and Chief Max Peralta for their diligent investigative work. We also thank Lara Tristan, Unit Manager of the Atascosa County Adult Probation Office, for preparing a comprehensive presentence investigation that gave the court valuable insight into the defendant’s background. Morgan’s mother is serving an 8 year sentence for her role in fleeing.

While no sentence can truly ease the pain of losing a loved one, Assistant District Attorney Erika Price worked tirelessly to ensure that justice was served on behalf of the victim’s family.

Christopher Centeno Sentenced to 17 Years for Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon

Following a jury trial in Karnes County in March, Christopher Centeno was found guilty on four counts of Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon. Centeno elected to have his punishment assessed by the presiding judge. Judge Dillingham sentenced him to 17 years in prison for each count, to be served concurrently.

The case stems from an incident that occurred in the early hours of July 18, 2022, at the Lone Star Inn in Kenedy, Texas. Surveillance footage revealed that Centeno and co-defendant Joe Lane arrived at the motel and engaged in a confrontation with occupants of a room. Shortly after, Centeno discharged three rounds into the room. The video shows Lane attempting to exit before Centeno opened fire again, with four individuals present in the room at the time. Two victims sustained injuries. Both suspects were seen fleeing the scene in a dark-colored vehicle.

Responding officers from the Kenedy Police Department interviewed the victims and witnesses, who positively identified Centeno and Lane. The pair were apprehended together in Beeville the following day.

During the trial, the jury reviewed video evidence and heard testimony from victims, eyewitnesses, and law enforcement. After deliberation, the jury quickly returned guilty verdicts on all four counts of Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon, a second-degree felony in Texas carrying a sentencing range of 2 to 20 years and a fine of up to $10,000. Our office argued for the maximum 20-year sentence.

This kind of violence endangers lives and threatens the fabric of our communities. Our office remains committed to pursuing justice aggressively and ensuring those who commit violent acts are held fully accountable.

We extend our appreciation to the Kenedy Police Department for their investigation and to the citizens of Karnes County for their dedicated service on the jury. Their commitment plays a vital role in upholding justice and community safety. We sincerely appreciate the dedication of First Assistant Leslie Carranza and Assistant DA Ryan Wright in their tireless pursuit of justice.

VOTER FRAUD IN FRIO COUNTY PRESS RELEASE:

Last week a Frio County Grand Jury indicted the following individuals:

• Frio County Judge, Rochelle Camacho: 3 counts of Vote Harvesting

• Former Frio County Elections Administrator, Carlos Segura: 1 count of Tampering with or Fabricating Physical Evidence

• Pearsall City Council, Ramiro Trevino: 1 count of Vote Harvesting

• Pearsall City Council, Racheal Garza: 1 count of Vote Harvesting

• Pearsall ISD Trustee, Adriann Ramirez: 3 counts of Vote Harvesting

• Alleged Frio County Vote Harvester, Rosa Rodriguez: 2 counts of Vote Harvesting

All of the charges are third degree felonies and carry a range of punishment from 2 to 10 years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine.

“Violating the privacy or voting rights of our elderly or disabled community members will be met with zero tolerance.

Targeting these vulnerable voters to sway an election or secure a political position is a direct attack on the principles of our democracy. We are committed to protecting every citizen’s right to vote freely, fairly, and without intimidation.”

Anyone who has seen or experienced this type of voter manipulation or intimidation first-hand in Atascosa, Frio, Karnes, La Salle, or Wilson County, is encouraged to contact our office. 830-393-2200. Investigations by the Election Integrity Unit of the Office of the Texas Attorney General are ongoing.

-Audrey Gossett Louis

81st Judical District Attorney

KARNES COUNTY JURY HANDS DOWN 50 YEAR SENTENCE FOR CONTINUOUS SEXUAL ABUSE OF A CHILD

Augustin Perez was charged with Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Child after repeatedly sexually assaulting a child from the ages of 6 to 7 years old who was a family member. Jury selection began Monday, February 24th and yesterday, after hearing the strong, detailed testimony of the child, a Karnes County jury found the defendant guilty of Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Child under the age of 14, and sentenced Perez to 50 years in prison and assessed a maximum fine of $10,000. Due to the nature of the charge, the defendant is required to serve his full 50-year sentence and will be 84 years old upon his release.

The victim's extraordinary courage in speaking out about the abuse, testifying in court, and, following the conviction, confronting the defendant for taking the victim’s childhood away, demostrates an unwavering strength and bravery that is truly inspiring. We are grateful to the counselor at Children’s Alliance of South Texas for providing the support needed to help the survivor navigate the trial process and begin the healing journey toward a brighter future.

We also extend our gratitude to Children’s Alliance of South Texas for their victim advocate and their role in conducting the forensic interview, which provided crucial details that allowed for the successful prosecution. The Karnes City Police Department conducted the investigation, with Assistant District Attorneys Ryan Wright and First Assistant Leslie Carranza, Investigator Roland Trevino, and Victim Assistance Coordinator Katie Quinney working diligently to ensure justice was served and to safeguard the well-being of the survivor.

We are truly grateful to the jury. While our office lives in a world of seeing and dealing with these and other heinous crimes daily, we recognize it is difficult for those outside of our world to listen to such disgusting acts. We are thankful for their attentiveness and decision to protect the free world from this child predator.

Matthew Bernal, of Kenedy, TX Sentenced on Two Counts of Indecency with Child

Defendant, Matthew Bernal, pled guilty to two counts of Indecency with Child by Sexual Contact on October 28, 2024. The defendant inappropriately touched a relative from the ages of 8-10 years old while the defendant was 19-21 years old. The defendant took advantage of his relationship with the victim’s father to gain access to the child. About two years after the abuse started, the victim developed the courage to outcry to her mom.

After the defendant's plea to 15 years in prison on October 28th, the judge allowed the defendant to remain out of custody and scheduled the defendant’s sentencing date for November 14th. However, the defendant failed to appear on that day. The night before his sentence, the defendant quit his job at Subway and abandoned his apartment in Karnes City. Bernal was a fugitive for over two months. He was arrested in San Antonio on Friday, January 17, 2025.

On January 30, 2025, our office called Chief Probation Officer, Valerie Campos, to testify about the defendant’s statements and his lack of taking responsibility. The victim also took the stand and bravely talked about how the defendant's abuse has impacted her and she asked the Judge to give the defendant the maximum sentence.

Prosecutor Vasquez asked the judge to run the defendant’s sentences consecutively, so the defendant would serve a total of 30 years. Hearing testimony and reading the Pre-Sentence Investigation Report prepared by Mrs. Campos, the Honorable Judge Wilson ordered that the sentences be stacked for a total of 30 years. Due to the victim’s age at the time of the offense, the defendant will have to serve at least half his sentence before being eligible for parole.

Thank you to all law enforcement involved in apprehending this defendant, former Kenedy Police Officer Petitfils for investigating the crime, Children’s Alliance of South Texas for interviewing the child to make sure all the allegations are brought out, Probation Chief Valerie Campos, Victim Advocate Katie Quinney, and ADA Audrey Vasquez for fighting for justice for this courageous victim and ensuring to keep the community safe.