SAN ANTONIO, Texas — Three men were arrested on charges related to the alleged aggravated sexual assault of a 30-year-old woman in San Antonio, officials said. The incident, which included an allegation of threats with a firearm, took place at a residential home and led to immediate legal action.
On Friday, local police responded to a 911 call made by a ride-share driver who reported that a passenger claimed she had been attacked by multiple men. The suspects, identified as Daniel Polanco, 31, Mark Martinez, 23, and Mark Valdez, 24, were taken into custody the same day.
The investigation revealed troubling details about the events leading up to the arrest. After an argument with her boyfriend, the victim, whose identity is protected, visited the home of Martinez, whom she knew casually. What began as a visit quickly escalated, with the woman alleging that Martinez began to inappropriately touch her, a claim substantiated by her statements to the police.
The situation deteriorated further when the other two suspects arrived at the house. According to the victim’s account in the arrest warrant, Valdez brandished a gun equipped with a green laser, intimidating her with threats of how easy it would be to harm her without anyone searching for her.
Subsequently, Polanco reportedly led the victim into another room where he assaulted her. The victim alleged that her protests and cries were ignored as Martinez and Valdez also participated in the assault. Later, in interviews with law enforcement, Martinez and Polanco claimed the encounter was consensual, acknowledging that alcohol and methamphetamine were consumed. In contrast, Valdez denied all allegations of sexual contact.
The severity of the allegations prompted the authorities to charge each suspect with aggravated sexual assault, with bonds set at $200,000 each. The victim was promptly attended to by specialists at the Special Victim’s Unit who documented her account and ensured she received necessary care.
This incident highlights ongoing issues of safety and consent, sparking conversations in the community about the importance of vigilant law enforcement and support systems for assault victims. Legal professionals emphasize the importance of thorough investigations in such cases to ensure justice is served and community safety is maintained.
As the court proceedings are pending, local advocacy groups have rallied to provide support and raise awareness about sexual assault and the importance of seeking timely help. The community response demonstrates a strong stance against violence and a commitment to supporting survivors.
This case continues to unfold as more details become available through legal processes, and as the community grapples with the implications of the charged offenses. As it progresses, the focus remains on the legal rights of the accused and the care and justice for the victim.