Mexican National Living Illegally in East Texas Indicted on Child Exploitation Charges

Federal authorities say the Splendora resident produced and distributed child pornography

BEAUMONT, Texas — A federal grand jury in the Eastern District of Texas has indicted Henry Alberto Calix-Martinez, 24, a Mexican national illegally residing in Splendora, on multiple child exploitation offenses, according to U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.

Calix-Martinez is charged with production and distribution of child pornography, stemming from allegations that he sexually exploited a minor by creating and distributing illicit material, investigators said.

If convicted, Calix-Martinez faces up to 30 years in federal prison.

Part of “Operation Take Back America”

Federal prosecutors confirmed this case falls under Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative directed by the U.S. Department of Justice. The operation focuses on:

• Combating illegal immigration

• Dismantling cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs)

• Protecting communities from violent offenders

Investigation and Prosecution

The case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and will be prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph R. Batte of the Eastern District of Texas.

Presumption of Innocence

Federal authorities emphasize that an indictment is only a formal accusation.

A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.