Laredo Man Found Guilty of Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child, Sentenced to 40 years

EDINBURG – On August 27, 2025, a Hidalgo County jury found Robert Xavier Rodriguez, Jr., 49, of Laredo, guilty of Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child. Rodriguez was sentenced on October 20, 2025, to 40 years in prison.

The investigation began on January 2, 2017, when the Edinburg Police Department received a report involving Rodriguez and a minor child. Investigators determined that Rodriguez had sexually abused a 9-year-old child. During the trial, the jury heard compelling evidence and emotional testimony detailing the abuse.

The case was tried in the 398th District Court of Hidalgo County, presided over by the Honorable Judge L. Keno Vasquez. Following his conviction, Rodriguez received a 40-year sentence on one count of Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child. Under Texas law, this is a first-degree felony.

“This case reflects our unwavering commitment to protecting the most vulnerable in our community,” said Hidalgo County District Attorney Toribio “Terry” Palacios. “We will continue to pursue justice for victims of these heinous crimes and ensure that offenders like Rodriguez are held accountable.”

The successful prosecution was the result of a joint effort by the Edinburg Police Department, the Hidalgo County District Attorney’s Office, and the Children’s Advocacy Center of Hidalgo and Starr Counties.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Cassandra Hernandez-Castillo and Raul Suarez.