Former Mormon Missionary Pleads to Sex Abuse of Child

By Jessica MIller
Salt Lake Tribune
April 20, 2013

http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/news/56185782-78/cordero-child-church-abuse.html.csp

A former LDS Church missionary accused of having sexual contact with a girl under the age of 14 has pleaded guilty to reduced charges.

Brandon Scott Cordero, 20, of Kaysville, was charged with two counts of first-degree felony of a rape child on Feb. 14 in 2nd District Court.

This week, Cordero pleaded guilty to three counts of second-degree felony sexual abuse of child.

According to a probable cause statement, Cordero attempted to have sex with the girl multiple times between Nov. 23, 2010 and May 31, 2012.

Cordero admits in court papers to touching the genitalia of a child on at least three occasions.

The alleged abuse took place prior to Cordero leaving to serve a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, according to a church spokesman.

"Elder Brandon Scott Cordero was released from his mission and sent home immediately when the charges against him came to light," church spokesman Scott Trotter said in February after Cordero’s arrest.

Cordero faces one to 15 years in prison on each count when he is sentenced May 28.

Contact: jmiller@sltrib.com