by | Published
An Atascosa County man has been sentenced to decades in prison following a case involving serious injuries to a young child.
On December 18, 2025, Manuel Martinez-Gomez was sentenced to 40 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice after accepting responsibility in a case involving Injury to a Child Causing Serious Bodily Injury. Under the terms of his sentence, Martinez-Gomez must serve at least 20 years before becoming eligible for parole.
The investigation began after concerns were raised about the welfare of a young child. Law enforcement officers and Child Protective Services responded to the report and removed the child from the home to ensure immediate medical care and protection. Authorities credit the individual who reported the abuse with taking action that ultimately saved the child’s life.
As part of the resolution of the case, Martinez-Gomez agreed to a sentencing arrangement allowing for a maximum term of up to 40 years, reflecting the severity of the offense.
Officials emphasized that crimes against children are treated with the utmost seriousness. The case involved coordinated efforts from CPS investigators, Investigator Robert Newman, deputies with the Atascosa County Sheriff’s Office, and officers with the Lytle Police Department.
Prosecutors also recognized Assistant District Attorneys Audrey Vasquez and Erika Price for their work in bringing the case to resolution and ensuring accountability.
Authorities encourage anyone who suspects child abuse or neglect to report it immediately to local law enforcement or the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services.
