WORTHINGTON — Rodrigo Narviez Esparza, 37, of Worthington, faces three felony charges—third-degree assault, domestic assault, and threats of violence—along with a gross misdemeanor count of fourth-degree assault. The charges stem from a violent incident on June 7.
According to the police report, multiple Worthington Police Officers responded to Sanford Worthington Medical Center after receiving a report of an assault. Upon arrival, they found the victim with a bleeding upper lip, visible bruising on the arms and face, and a cast on their right arm. The victim appeared visibly distressed.
The victim identified their roommate, Rodrigo Narviez Esparza, as the assailant. They told officers that Narviez Esparza had punched them without warning earlier that day in their apartment. The victim also alleged that Narviez Esparza threatened to have people kill them if they reported the assault. According to the report, the victim was terrified and feared returning to their home.
Further statements revealed that this was not the first instance of violence. The victim recounted a history of abuse over the past year, including incidents in which Narviez Esparza allegedly broke their tooth and thumb. The victim claimed they were frequently subjected to verbal abuse and threats.
One particularly alarming allegation involved an incident in the summer of 2024 when Narviez Esparza reportedly held a gun to the victim’s chest and threatened to kill them. Officers noted that the victim was hesitant to share these details, expressing fear for their safety.
Medical personnel treated the victim for a deep cut requiring stitches and reported additional injuries in various stages of healing.
Narviez Esparza was found outside the apartment building shortly afterward and was taken into custody. Authorities confirmed he has two prior assault convictions.
