Carlos Henri, 31, pleaded guilty Wednesday to three counts of felony sexual assault on a child, just as his case was approaching trial.
The local man entered into a plea agreement with the 22nd Judicial District Attorneys office, pleading guilty to reduced charges. Under the agreement, he faces a presumptive range of two to 12 years with a minimum of 10 years parole, but could face up to a life sentence.
In addition, it is recommended Henri seek a psychosexual evaluation, and pay restitution and court costs.
Montezuma County Sheriffs Office Detective Tyson Cox testified in a preliminary hearing in May, alleging that in a Jan. 21 interview, Henri said he wanted to turn himself in, admitting to having problems with sexual behavior and inappropriately touching three girls, all less than 15 years old, earlier that month.
Henri said he had been drinking alcohol and was playing with the girls in the snow, touching them over their clothing after swinging them over his shoulder, Cox testified. The girls stayed over that night, and Henri admitted to touching a girl under her clothes while she slept, Cox said. He reportedly told the detective the touchings were deliberate and caused him sexual gratification.
In separate forensic interviews, the three girls confirmed Henris story, saying the man touched them inappropriately.
The defense had argued that there was insufficient evidence to show one of the girls was present while they were playing in the snow. Further, they argued Henri was not of a sound state of mind when he approached law enforcement with his statement.
Henri remains in custody and awaits sentencing.
Reach Reid Wright at reidw@cortezjournal.com.