Repeat Child Predator Sentenced to Prison

MIDLAND, TX -- A repeat sexual offender has been sentenced to life in prison for charges related to child sex crimes.

According to the Midland County D.A. Office, 39-year-old Jonathan Vela was charged with two counts of Indecency with a Child by Contact.

During a jury trial, the prosecution presented evidence that showed Vela had inappropriately touched a 15-year-old girl. The girl was able to push Vela off and later disclosed the incident to a therapist.

At the end of the trial, the jury found Vela guilty of one count. While the punishment range for  Indecency with a Child by Contact is typically 2 to 20 years, the punishment was enhanced because Vela had previously pleaded guilty to sexually assaulting a child.

Vela will be eligible for parole after serving 35 years in prison.