SANDPOINT — A 20-year-old man from Guatemala has entered a guilty plea on an amended charge of child abuse stemming from an October 2025 incident.  

Jose Gabriel Martinez-Perez, 21, was originally apprehended on felony charges of lewd conduct with a minor under 16 but entered a guilty plea to an amended felony charge of injury to a child as part of a pretrial settlement.  

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.    

As a result of the guilty plea, immigration consequences may occur following his March 24 sentencing.  

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. 

Martinez-Perez was later apprehended by law enforcement and put on a $250,000 bond.