Mike Escobedo, 41, of New Braunfels, was sentenced to life in prison on March 4, 2025, after pleading guilty to Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Young Child.
Visiting Judge Glenn Devlin heard evidence that Escobedo sexually abused a biological relative from elementary school through high school. The abuse involved emotional, physical, and sexual trauma. Escobedo used grooming tactics, including isolation of the victim and desensitization to sexual content.
The victim testified about the impact of the abuse on their childhood and high school experience. A teacher also testified regarding the victim’s outcry and the changes observed in the victim after the disclosure.
CPS investigator Nathan Barela testified that Escobedo admitted to inappropriate touching and "check-ups" with the victim. Escobedo later left a voicemail admitting that the victim's allegations were true.
Evidence from Escobedo’s cellphone, including text messages admitting to the abuse and referring to himself as a "rapist," was presented. Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner Noella Hill testified about the long-lasting effects of child sexual abuse.
Judge Devlin sentenced Escobedo to life in prison.
The State of Texas thanked the victim's teacher, Nathan Barela, Noella Hill, Donna Dishman, Sgt. Gander with Canine Classmates, Detective Christopher Diaz, and the New Braunfels Police Department. Special thanks was given to the victim for their courage.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Lauren Cole and Jennifer Feldman, with assistance from Victim Coordinator Dana Leopold and DA Investigator Ashley Eicher.
