Lake Charles, Louisiana - A 29-year-old Lake Charles man was arrested on serious sexual abuse charges involving a child under 13 years old following an investigation by Calcasieu Parish Sheriff's Office deputies.
Elvin Meza was taken into custody after deputies responded to suspicious circumstances at a Lake Charles residence around midnight on September 13. The initial call prompted the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff's Office Special Victims Unit to launch an investigation.
During the investigation, detectives determined that Meza had inappropriate sexual contact with a girl under the age of 13. Further investigation revealed the sexual abuse occurred on multiple occasions, according to the sheriff's office.
Meza was booked into the Calcasieu Correctional Center on charges of first degree rape and sexual battery of a victim under the age of 13. Judge Tony Fazzio set his bond at $2.25 million. Meza also has an immigration detainer on file.
The Special Victims Unit handles cases involving crimes against children and vulnerable adults. These specialized detectives receive training to investigate sensitive cases involving sexual abuse and other crimes against minors.
First degree rape is one of the most serious felony charges in Louisiana and carries severe penalties upon conviction. Sexual battery involving a victim under 13 is also classified as a felony offense with significant legal consequences.
Detective Cody Ferguson with the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff's Office Special Victims Unit is serving as the lead investigator on the case. The investigation remains ongoing.
All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty.