Woman accused of indecency with child under her care, according to BCSO

A woman, identified as 19-year-old Amris Celeste Vasquez, was arrested on Monday afternoon in Bexar County, Texas, and charged with indecency with a child. The charges include both indecency by contact and the display of harmful matter to a minor. The arrest came after a 15-year-old female victim disclosed to her father that Vasquez, who had been babysitting her for years, had sent her sexually explicit content and engaged in inappropriate touching.

According to Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar, Vasquez had sent a sexually explicit video to the victim, which depicted Vasquez and another female engaging in sexual activity. When the victim expressed her discomfort with the video, Vasquez responded by sending the victim explicit images of herself. The victim further reported waking up to find Vasquez in her bed, touching her inappropriately.

Upon learning of the incident, the victim’s father immediately contacted the San Antonio Police, who subsequently transferred the case to Bexar County due to jurisdictional reasons. During the investigation, it was discovered that Vasquez had relocated to Dallas. To apprehend her, investigators employed a ruse, enticing Vasquez back to Bexar County under the pretense of needing to speak with her about an unrelated matter.

Sheriff Salazar characterized Vasquez’s actions as “grooming behavior,” a common tactic employed by predators. This behavior typically involves sending inappropriate messages to gauge the victim’s reactions. Salazar also expressed concern for the other female in the explicit video, suggesting that she may also be a victim of Vasquez’s actions.

The investigation is ongoing, and there is a possibility that Vasquez may face additional charges. Sheriff Salazar commended the victim for her bravery in disclosing the abuse to her father and praised his investigators for their swift handling of the case. He also reminded the public that resources are available for victims of sexual exploitation and urged anyone with information regarding such cases to contact the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office at 210-335-6000 or via email at [email protected].