Alleged illegal immigrant charged with raping 7-year-old Cedar City girl

A Cedar City man was arrested Sunday after he allegedly sexually assaulted a 7-year-old female "thousands of times."

Victor Francisco Michel-Lara, 32, is charged with two first-degree felony counts of rape of a child. He's also being held on an additional immigration detainer.

During an interview at the Iron County Children's Justice Center, the alleged victim told investigators in Spanish that Michel-Lara had molested her "many times in the last six months," according to the probable cause statement filed in the 5th District Court Monday.

She also told investigators he had raped her "thousands of times."

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While Michel-Lara admitted to multiple incidents, he allegedly explained in Spanish to investigators that the assaults unintentionally occurred at least two times while he was applying lotion to her skin, the report said.

He also allegedly attempted to explain the rape occurred accidentally when they were "rough housing" and jumping around" following a shower twice.

Police believe Michel-Lara is in the country illegally. He had previously been arrested on unrelated charges and deported back to Mexico. In the report, CCPD investigator Matt Topham noted the suspect could face additional charges of aggravated re-entry into the United States.

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The mother of the victim told investigators she was concerned Michel-Lara was planning to travel to Washington to visit family and had recently quit his job in preparation for the trip. Michel-Lara was booked into the Iron County Jail on Sunday. A $200,000 cash-only bail was set because he was considered to be a possible flight risk.

As of Monday, the preliminary hearing has not been scheduled.

Follow reporter Bree Burkitt on Twitter, @BreeBurkitt. Call her at 435-218-2241.