An Edinburg man, 37-year-old Jose Antonio Esparza Serrato, has been arrested following a violent domestic assault where he reportedly held a firearm to his wife’s head. The incident occurred on Friday, February 28th, around 2 p.m. at an undisclosed location, and the victim reported the assault to district police at an Edinburg Consolidated Independent School District (EISD) campus.
Edinburg Police Department officers quickly responded and discovered that the attack had taken place off-campus. Despite the victim’s reluctance to press charges, authorities emphasized that Texas law permits officers to make arrests in cases of domestic violence to ensure the victim’s safety.
Charges and Legal Ramifications
Jose Antonio Esparza Serrato faces multiple charges, including:
Aggravated assault
Child endangerment
His total bond has been set at $240,000. Police emphasized that, even if the victim does not wish to press charges, officers are legally authorized to make an arrest for the protection of the victim under Texas law.
“As part of our commitment to protecting victims of domestic violence, officers can act to prevent further harm, regardless of the victim’s wishes,” a police spokesperson stated.
Rising Domestic Violence Cases in Hidalgo County
Domestic violence cases continue to rise in Hidalgo County. Mujeres Unidas, a local advocacy group dedicated to supporting victims, has reported an uptick in cases over the past year. The organization offers essential services, such as emergency shelters, free counseling, and legal advocacy for victims of domestic violence.
“We provide all our services for free, helping victims understand their rights and gain the support they need,” a Mujeres Unidas representative explained.
Resources for Domestic Violence Victims
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, immediate help is available. Reach out to:
Mujeres Unidas: 1-800-580-4878
Local law enforcement for emergency assistance
Domestic violence is a serious issue, and local authorities and organizations like Mujeres Unidas continue to work to provide support and protection for victims.
