By Jennifer P. Rendon
An automotive electrician was arrested on charges related to sexual molestation.
Identified only as alias Joemarie, 51, the suspect was apprehended at his home in Barangay Madrangca, San Jose, Antique, around 11 a.m. on Oct. 30.
Members of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) – Antique Provincial Field Unit, along with the San Jose Municipal Police Station, arrested Joemarie by virtue of a warrant issued for statutory rape, acts of lasciviousness, and violations of Republic Act 7610 (Special Protection of Children Against Child Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act). The cases are filed under Criminal Case Numbers 2024-09-11112, 2024-09-11113, and 2024-09-11114.
Judge Jojo Cruz Cruzat of Regional Trial Court Branch 11 (RTC-6) in San Jose, Antique, issued the warrant on Oct. 9, 2024.
No bail was recommended for the statutory rape charge, while bail was set at PHP180,000 for acts of lasciviousness and PHP200,000 for the RA 7610 violation.
Authorities noted that Joemarie is the eighth most wanted individual in Antique province.
The suspect is currently detained, awaiting further legal proceedings.
