HPD cop accused of sexual assault of 15-year-old girl

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- A Houston police officer is accused of sexually assaulting a 15-year-old girl, while on duty.

Ruben Anthony Carrera, 27, is charged with sexual assault of a child. According to court documents, Carrera often visited the Chick Fil A fast food restaurant where the girl worked and the two entered into a romantic relationship.

The alleged assault came to light when a co-worker of the teen came forward to police. The witness says he often saw Carrera hugging and kissing the girl at the restaurant.

The girl reportedly told authorities that Carrera has been to her house several times and on one occasion in October they were involved in sexual activity in her bedroom while Carrera was in uniform. She said they were interrupted when he received a call over his police radio.

When questioned, Carrera admitted to knowing the girl was 15 years old, and that they had a dating relationship.

"Based on the nature of this relationship, with this complainant, the DA's office believes that there may be other victims out there," explained Tiffany Johnson with the district attorney's office. "We would like for those victims to contact the Houston Police Department if any young females have had any type of inappropriate contact with this police officer."

Tammy Hetmanick works with the Children's Assessment Center. She says abuse cases involving authority figures are confusing for children.

"They have a higher credibility so children do trust in them, are taught to trust in these individuals," Hetmanick said. "When a child is betrayed by one of those individuals, it's very concerning for us."

Hetmanick emphasizes the importance of talking with children about sexual abuse, and letting them know that even people who they trust can sometimes betray that trust.

Carrera was several read warnings in court and ordered not to have contact with either the victim or her mother. He's charged with sexual assault of a child, a second degree felony. If convicted, he could get between 2 and 20 years in prison.