Child abuse is a heinous crime that leaves a lasting impact on its victims. Recently, a shocking incident came to light at the Galleria Mall in Houston, Texas, where a man has been arrested for filming himself and six others gang-raping two children in the public toilet of a busy Mall.
The suspect, 29-year-old Arthur Hector Fernandez III, has been charged with child molestation.
According to authorities, the atrocious events occurred inside the public bathrooms of the Houston Galleria, a well-known shopping destination in the US state of Texas.
Fernández has been accused of sexual exploitation of children. The victims, ages 2 and 3, were identified in the disturbing videos. One of the videos shows a young boy on a changing table in a public bathroom, being assaulted while Fernández allegedly records the act. In three other videos, a second child is shown on a changing table, with several men, including Fernández. Fernández was part of the act that was captured in at least two of these recordings.
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The FBI, through a meticulous investigation, identified Fernández by analyzing videos and the clothing the victims were wearing. Additionally, Fernández’s silver bracelets, observed by the young children’s relatives, played a crucial role in linking him to the crimes.
The first child’s relatives revealed that Fernández offered to take care of him during an unexpected work situation. This was the only time the boy was alone with Fernandez, media reports said, citing court documents.
Records indicate the incidents involving the first toddler occurred on May 6 in a Galleria bathroom.
During a search at Fernandez’s listed address, the Houston FBI discovered three pairs of low-top white Converse All-Star shoes seen in one of the videos. Electronic devices, particularly those capable of storing explicit material, were also reportedly found.
Dr. Bob Sanborn, president and CEO of Children at Risk, reportedly said, “Kids, after you’ve dated someone you thought you trusted, you’re going to withdraw. You’re going to be calmer. Look for those changes in your kids; bedridden, without eating.”
In light of this disturbing incident involving young children, Sanborn emphasized the importance of creating safe environments for children.