URGENT UPDATE: A 34-year-old Lake Charles man has been charged with the rape of an elementary school student, according to the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office. This shocking incident has sent ripples through the community as authorities act swiftly to address the allegations.
On Friday, December 5, 2025, officers from the Sheriff’s Office’s Special Victims Unit were dispatched to a local school following a report from a student claiming she had been sexually abused. The victim alleged that Gerson A. Espinal touched her inappropriately on multiple occasions and raped her.
Officials revealed that the victim had confided in a family member, Carla M. Artiaga, 32, who is now facing charges for failing to report the allegations to law enforcement. This failure to act exacerbates the trauma faced by the victim, highlighting the critical importance of reporting such incidents.
“The victim’s bravery in coming forward is commendable, and we urge anyone who suspects abuse to report it immediately,” said Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Kayla Vincent.
Both Espinal and Artiaga were arrested and booked into the Calcasieu Correctional Center. Espinal is facing serious charges including first-degree rape and sexual battery against a victim under the age of 13. His bond has been set at a staggering $500,000.
Artiaga, on the other hand, is charged with failure to report certain felonies and has a bond of $100,000. Authorities confirmed that both individuals are also being held on immigration detainers issued by the Department of Homeland Security.
This case underscores the urgent need for vigilance and immediate reporting in cases of abuse. As the investigation unfolds, the community is left to grapple with the implications of these allegations and their impact on the lives involved.
As this situation develops, more details are expected to emerge. Community members are encouraged to stay informed and support efforts to protect vulnerable individuals.
