Emerson Pinto, Abusive Sexual Contact, New Mexico 2023

Crownpoint man charged with abusive sexual contact.

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – A Crownpoint man is facing serious charges after pleading guilty to two counts of abusive sexual contact in Indian Country.

Emerson Pinto, 58, of Crownpoint, New Mexico, and an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, admitted to engaging in unlawful sexual contact with two girls who were under the age of 12 at the time of the offenses. The incidents occurred between on or about Sept. 1, 2009, and Oct. 31, 2009.

According to the plea agreement, Pinto knowingly touched the girls for sexual gratification at a home in Little Water, New Mexico, on the Navajo Nation. The FBI investigated this case, which has left the community reeling.

Pinto faces up to eight years and one month in prison and will be required to register as a sex offender. Assistant U.S. Attorney Novaline D. Wilson is prosecuting the case. Pinto will remain in custody pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled.

The charges against Pinto are a stark reminder of the importance of protecting vulnerable members of our community. The Navajo Nation and law enforcement agencies are working together to ensure that justice is served and that those who commit such heinous crimes are held accountable.

The case against Pinto serves as a warning to would-be predators that they will be caught and brought to justice. The community demands nothing less. We will continue to follow this story and provide updates as more information becomes available.

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