by Porter, Texas – A Texas man has been charged with child sexual abuse after two 10-year-old children reported multiple incidents of alleged assault involving their mother’s boyfriend, according to the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies were first called to a home in Porter, located north of Houston, on Feb. 11, after receiving a report of sexual assault.
“Upon arrival, deputies learned that two 10-year-old children had stated they had been sexually abused by their mother’s boyfriend, identified as Joseph Compagnari,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement.
Special Victims Unit launches investigation
Following the initial report, the Sheriff’s Office Special Victims Unit (SVU) responded to the scene, while Child Protective Services began a parallel investigation.
The next day, the children were interviewed at Children’s Safe Harbor, a local children’s advocacy center. During forensic interviews, authorities said the children disclosed multiple incidents of sexual assault involving the suspect.
Medical personnel also conducted sexual assault examinations as part of the investigation.
Arrest made in Mont Belvieu
On Feb. 12, investigators executed a search warrant at a residence in Mont Belvieu, approximately 20 miles from Porter.
With assistance from the Mont Belvieu Police Department, detectives located and arrested Joseph Compagnari at the home.
He has been charged with continuous sexual abuse of a child and is currently being held at the Chambers County Jail. Authorities said he has not been granted bond.
The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office commended the bravery of the victims and the coordinated efforts of agencies involved in the investigation.
Officials added that the case remains active and that no additional details will be released at this time in order to protect the integrity of the investigation and the privacy of the victims.
As with all criminal cases, the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
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Resources for victims and families
If you suspect child abuse, contact the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-422-4453. The hotline is toll-free, confidential and available 24 hours a day in more than 170 languages.
If you or someone you know has experienced sexual abuse, you can text “STRENGTH” to 741-741 to connect with a certified crisis counselor through the Crisis Text Line.
Community members are encouraged to share support and awareness resources respectfully in the comments below.
