El Paso Catholic Diocese School Board Member Arrested on Suspicion of Child Porn
By Aaron Martinez
A Catholic Diocese of El Paso school board member was arrested Tuesday on suspicion of distribution and possession of child pornography, federal officials said. Victor Jerome Reza, 53, was arrested after an investigation by the U.S. Homeland Security Investigations department allegedly revealed he had downloaded child exploitation videos and photos on his home computer, HSI spokeswoman Leticia Zamarripa said. Reza has been a board member of the El Paso Catholic Schools Diocesan School Board since 2008, diocese officials said in a statement. The board manages all activities related to Catholic schools in the Diocese of El Paso. "Anytime we hear of an allegation of sexual misconduct or abuse of a minor we are very concerned," diocese officials said in a statement. "Mr. Victor J. Reza is a member of our Diocesan School board and has served since 2008." Diocese officials said a criminal background check was performed on Reza, but declined to comment further. "They (board members) are required to undergo a criminal background check and Safe Environment training for the Diocese," diocese officials said. "Mr. Reza completed these requirements. The Diocese cannot comment on the details of this issue since it is an ongoing criminal investigation." Reza was escorted from El Paso County Jail on Wednesday to the federal courthouse for a preliminary hearing. A detention hearing was set for Aug. 11. As Reza was escorted from the county jail, he declined comment. He was arrested on suspicion of intransit, receipt and distribution of child sexual exploitation material, according to jail records. No bond was listed. No further information was released as HSI agents continue to investigate. Aaron Martinez may be reached at 546-6249.
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