A Jefferson County man, Jose Oliver Mendoza-Colindres, 43, has been charged with multiple counts of sexually abusing a child. He faces one count of sexual abuse of a minor under 16 and two counts of lewd conduct with a minor under 16.
Deputies from the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office attended a forensic interview on July 14 at the Bright Tomorrows Child Advocacy Center. During the interview, the victim detailed several instances of abuse that allegedly occurred between the ages of 3 and 8. The victim reported Mendoza-Colindres would inappropriately touch her or remove her clothing, telling her, “I’m showing you my love.” These assaults reportedly happened approximately once or twice a month at his home and other locations over several years.
One incident in 2020 involved an alleged assault in a camper trailer at Mendoza-Colindres’ home during a party, which the victim’s father reportedly discovered. The victim’s parents initially did not report the incidents due to concerns about traumatizing the child and the father’s immigration status. They later reported the crimes to the Bannock County Sheriff’s Office after learning the full extent of the allegations.
An arrest warrant was issued following the interviews. Mendoza-Colindres could face up to life in prison and fines of up to $150,000 if found guilty. He is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on August 6. He is presumed innocent until proven guilty.