Texas man who sexually abused several children receives life sentence

MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Texas — A man will spend the rest of his life in prison for the “cruel abuse” of three children, the Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office said Thursday.

The jury sentenced 43-year-old Jose Antonio Pineda to life in prison without parole after finding him guilty of continuous sexual abuse of a child under the age of 14.

“Jose Pineda earned every day of his life sentence. This jury has shown once again that the citizens of Montgomery County will not tolerate those who abuse our children,” said Montgomery County District Attorney Brett Ligon.

Three children bravely testified about the abuse they endured for at least seven years. They said Pineda gave them alcohol before repeatedly sexually abusing them. They told jurors about the difficulties they went through because of Pineda’s abuse and the lasting impact of keeping it secret for so long.

“Jose Pineda manipulated and abused these children for so long that they lived in a prison of silence and shame. So it is only fitting that they are finally free while he is locked away and can never hurt another child again,” said Assistant District Attorney Sara Corradi.

“The jury’s verdict reaffirmed that it is never too late to speak out about abuse and that it is never too late to bring those who harm children to justice,” said Assistant District Attorney Carmen Morales.

If you or someone you know is a victim of child abuse of any kind, there is help available. You can start by contacting one of these agencies or organizations.

• Children’s Assessment Center 1-800-252-5400
• Child support 1-800-4-A-CHILD
• Houston Police Department Youth Division 713-731-5353
• Crime Stoppers of Houston 713-521-4600

You can also tell an adult you trust, such as a teacher, principal or school counselor.