100 East Cano St.

Edinburg, TX 78539

956-292-7600

Have a question?
Give us a call.

Office Hours
Mon - Fri: 8:00 - 5:00

Search
Close this search box.

Hidalgo County District Attorney

Special Crimes Division

As an integral part of the Hidalgo County Criminal District Attorney’s Office, the Special Crimes Division handles those sensitive cases often involving society’s most vulnerable: children. These victims are the least likely to be able to stop crimes from being committed against them, report crimes to law enforcement, or have the support needed to get through the complex legal process.

Our Mission

Our mission is to ensure the safety and voice of all victims while vigorously, effectively and fairly prosecuting offenders. The Division’s mission shall always be carried out in a compassionate and fair manner to enhance society’s fundamental right to a safe and just community.

The unit is comprised of prosecutors, victim advocates, investigators, and essential staff members who each play a vital role in the prosecution of these critical cases.

Child ABUSE UNIT

Hidalgo County Criminal District Attorney Ricardo Rodriguez created the Child Abuse Unit when he saw the alarming rate at which it has plagued Hidalgo County.

The Child Abuse Unit is made up of 4 dedicated prosecutors who fight to seek justice for children who have been abused and neglected. An investigator and 2 advocates are also assigned to the unit.

The Child Abuse Unit investigates and prosecutes the following types of crimes:

  • Capital Murder: First Degree Felony, punishable by life in prison without the possibility of parole or death.
  • Murder: First Degree Felony, punishable by 5-99 years, or life in prison.
  • Super Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child: First Degree Felony, punishable by 25-99 years or life in prison without the possibility of parole.
  • Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Child: First Degree Felony, punishable by 25-99 years or life in prison without the possibility of parole.
  • Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child: First Degree Felony, punishable by 5-99 years or life in prison.
  • Indecency with a Child by Contact: Second Degree Felony, punishable by 2-20 years in prison.
  • Indecency with a Child by Exposure: Third Degree Felony, punishable by 2-10 years in prison.
  • Injury to a Child (Knowingly Causing Serious Bodily Injury): First Degree Felony, punishable by 5-99 years or life in prison.
  • Injury to a Child (Recklessly Causing Serious Bodily Injury): Second Degree Felony, punishable by 2-20 years in prison.
  • Injury to a Child (Knowingly and Intentionally Causing Bodily Injury): Third Degree Felony, punishable by 2-10 years in prison.
  • Injury to a Child (Recklessly Causing Bodily Injury): State Jail Felony, punishable by 6 months to 2 years in state jail.

If you suspect a child is being abused or neglected, please contact authorities.