Man Found Not Guilty of Sexual Assault

SANTA FE, N.M. — After more than eight years of legal battles and three trials, a Santa Fe jury on Thursday found the defendant, 74, not guilty of sexually assaulting two young boys in the showers at Fort Marcy Recreation Complex in 2015. The verdict marked the end of a long and emotionally charged case—and a major milestone for the defense, led by veteran Santa Fe attorney Dan Cron.

Jurors deliberated for just two and a half hours before reaching their unanimous decision, acquitting the suspect of all charges. The verdict came after a four-day trial in which Cron presented a meticulous and respectful defense, highlighting new evidence that had never been brought forward in the previous two trials.

“We’re very grateful for the attentiveness of the jury,” Cron said after the verdict. “They reached the correct verdict, and we appreciate having had the opportunity to present a full case to the court and the jury. We’re just very grateful for this judicial system that we have.”

The defendant was first tried in 2016, resulting in a mistrial when jurors deadlocked 7–5 in favor of conviction. A second trial in 2017 ended in a guilty verdict, but Cron—who joined the defense after that conviction—successfully petitioned for a new trial after uncovering crucial witnesses who had been overlooked by the original investigation.

Cron and his team located and interviewed individuals who were present in the locker room at the time of the alleged incident and who testified that they saw or heard nothing unusual. Their testimony formed a key part of the third trial, ultimately persuading jurors that there was reasonable doubt in the state’s case.

Throughout the proceedings, Cron maintained a steady, understated presence, emphasizing his belief in due process while refraining from discrediting the young accusers. His approach focused instead on factual inconsistencies and investigative gaps.

While the verdict was a legal victory for the defendant, the courtroom remained tense. The families of the two boys left in tears, expressing heartbreak and frustration with the outcome. One mother said, “I feel like the justice system failed the boys three times.” Both families continue to pursue a civil lawsuit against the suspect and the City of Santa Fe, alleging a failure to maintain a safe environment at the city-run complex.

The trial also resurfaced past allegations against the defendant, including a previous ban from another city facility, Salvador Perez Recreation Center. Prosecutors had previously filed and later dismissed a perjury charge against the defendant, tied to testimony about that incident. While those allegations did not result in criminal charges, the families say their concerns remain unresolved.

Despite the emotion surrounding the case, Cron emphasized the importance of a fair trial and a thorough presentation of evidence.

“This case has weighed heavily on all involved,” Cron said. “We respect the seriousness of the allegations, and we approached the defense with care, diligence, and humility. Ultimately, the jury found that there was reasonable doubt, and that’s what our legal system is built on.”

As the civil case proceeds, the criminal case is now closed. For Cron, the outcome is a solemn reminder of the defense attorney’s role: not to celebrate, but to ensure the integrity of the legal process—even when the stakes are as high as they were in this case.