SANDPOINT — A 20-year-old man from Guatemala who was arrested early last month on charges related to child sexual abuse has entered a not guilty plea on the matter.  

Jose Gabriel Martinez-Perez, 20, entered the plea of innocence Nov. 18 against a lewd conduct with a minor charge.  

At the time of his arrest, Martinez-Perez faced an additional charge of child enticement through the internet, but the charge was later dismissed without prejudice by prosecutor Katie Sherritt.  

A dismissal without prejudice allows the state to refile the charge at a later time, often serving as a procedural reset to correct errors or gather additional evidence. 

Martinez-Perez is currently being held at the Bonner County Jail on a $250,000 bond.  

According to a criminal complaint, Martinez-Perez could be facing life in prison and/or a $50,000 fine if found guilty of the crime; immigration consequences may also apply. 

Law enforcement became aware of the alleged crime by way of a 911 call, where the victim's mother expressed concerns about Martinez-Perez's potential association with the underage girl. An affidavit of probable cause contends that Martinez-Perez and the girl had communicated through text, discussing plans to meet for sexual activity.  

Documents also note that the victim has developmental delays and is unable to function at an age-appropriate level. 

When police arrived at Martinez-Perez's residence, they learned that he is originally from Guatemala and is employed in Sandpoint on a work visa. Records state that Martinez-Perez claimed he believed the girl was 16, and that he understood lewd conduct with a minor to be illegal.