Wilson County, TX — Following a bench trial where Ferman Chavez was previously found guilty of Continuous Sexual Assault of a Child Under 14 Years of Age, on October 16, 2025, the Honorable Judge Jennifer Dillingham sentenced Chavez to 99 years in prison. Under Texas law, this sentence must be served day-for-day without the possibility of parole.
This conviction was the result of a thorough investigation led by the Floresville Police Department, with particular recognition to former Investigator Perry Hyden. The Children’s Alliance of South Texas also played a critical role, with forensic interviewer Andrea Regalado providing expert testimony on behalf of the child victim.
Most importantly, this outcome would not have been possible without the incredible courage of two children who came forward to testify. Their bravery in the face of trauma helped ensure Chavez was held accountable and that others will be protected from future harm.
It takes unimaginable strength for children to come forward in cases like this. Their voices made all the difference, and because of their courage, justice was done. We are grateful for their strength and for the tireless work of our law enforcement partners.
During the punishment hearing of the Wilson County case, Probation Officer Andrew Flores testified that Chavez was arrested for murder in Karnes County while out on bond for the sexual assault charges. In June 2022, family members reported Menerva "Mickey" Rodriguez missing after she had not been seen for several weeks. A witness later came forward alleging that Chavez was responsible for her death, prompting a murder investigation in Karnes County. As investigators gathered additional evidence, they determined that Chavez had fatally shot Rodriguez in Karnes County. This sentence, while for the continuous sexual abuse of two child victims, also brings some closure to the family of Mickey Rodriguez, as Chavez will never be free again.
This is a dangerous individual who posed a grave threat to our communities. Thanks to the brave victims, investigators, and prosecution team of Lorena Whitney and Marc Ledet, Ferman Chavez will never harm another innocent person again. Our office remains committed to prosecuting crimes against the most vulnerable and ensuring that justice is served
