June 25, 2025 – The DeSoto County District Attorney’s office Wednesday morning says a jury Tuesday convicted Fernando Medina Rivero, an illegal alien from Mexico, of Fondling and Sexual Battery of a minor following a two-day trial in Circuit Court, yesterday.
The conviction stems from a Hernando Police Department investigation into reports of repeated sexual abuse of a child. Rivero was arrested last September and has remained in custody. He is currently being held on an ICE detainer due to his illegal presence in the United States.
“This case is another heartbreaking example of an innocent child suffering at the hands of a predator who should never have been in this country to begin with,” said District Attorney Matthew Barton. “Thanks to a relentless investigation by law enforcement and the tireless work of our trial team, justice was delivered and the victim in this case can begin to find closure.”
Assistant District Attorney Steven Jubera, who prosecuted the case alongside ADA Michael Steele, praised the strength and courage of the victim.
“We are very proud of the brave young lady who came forward and fought for herself,” Jubera said. “Many young women don’t disclose the abuse they suffer, or are not believed by the people around them. She was able, and in a very brave way, stood up to the person who abused her for all of those years. We are very proud of her, and grateful to the assistance of the Marshall County Sheriff’s Department and Hernando Police Department for the work they did on this case.”
Rivero’s sentencing will be scheduled in the coming weeks.
