School aide arrested for alleged criminal sexual conduct

by Mindy Aguon

Guam - A Department of Education school aide is being held behind bars on $5,000 cash bail accused of sexually abusing a female minor. 42-year-old Edward John Perez Cruz is charged with 2nd degree criminal sexual conduct, attempted criminal sexual conduct and child abuse. 

According to the magistrate's complaint, Cruz allegedly got into the shower with a 15-year-old female known to him and tried to touch her breasts and asked her to promise not to tell anyone.  The victim ran out and went to her room. She reported that Cruz followed her and asked her to roll up his sleeve.  Cruz allegedly then reached down and slapped and squeezed the victim's buttocks. 

While the teen was on her way to school, Cruz allegedly called her and offered to take her clothes shopping on base this weekend.  He called her several more times but she ignored his calls.

When her parents went to his house to get the teen's clothes, Cruz allegedly apologized to the girl's mother and said he, "Does not know what he was thinking".

In court today Assistant Attorney General Nelson Werner requested that Cruz be held on bail. Judge Alberto Tolentino said, "Mr. Cruz, the government is recommending is that you remain in custody until you come up with $5,000 in cash." His honor added, "Although the court notes that you have no previous criminal history, the nature and seriousness of the alleged crimes - 1st degree felony - if you were convicted, you would face a potential 15 years in jail and a $10,000 fine."

The court appointed the public defender to represent Cruz who is scheduled to appear back in court on March 29 for a preliminary examination. Cruz was also ordered to have no contact with the alleged victim in this case. KUAM News has confirmed that Cruz is a school aide assigned to M.U. Lujan Elementary School.

Department of Education officials could not be reached to confirm whether an investigation has been launched into Cruz's arrest.