A man has been sentenced to four years in state prison after pleading guilty to attempting to rape a 78-year-old woman at a church in Mira Mesa.
The 29-year-old man, Hugo Jonathan Espinoza-Martinez, is required to register as a sex offender following his plea to an attempted forcible rape charge related to an incident that occurred on November 25, 2022, at Summit Point Church on Rickert Road.
Four days later, Espinoza-Martinez was taken into custody on Westview Parkway, situated less than a mile from the church.
Last year, during an initial hearing, the victim shared that she was by herself at the church where she often volunteered. She testified that she allowed Espinoza-Martinez to enter after he requested to use the restroom.
She stated that after he went to the restroom, he inquired about hugging her, but she declined several times and warned him that she would contact the police if he didn’t go away.
While getting ready to make a call, Espinoza-Martinez attempted to take her phone back, leading to a struggle that moved into another room of the church, where she testified the assault took place.
The victim shared that she attempted to step on his feet and used her keys to defend herself. Eventually, she managed to break free from him, after which Espinoza-Martinez exited the church.
The woman was absent from Espinoza-Martinez’s sentencing hearing, but Deputy District Attorney Alex Willett presented a statement from the victim.
“I want you to know that I have forgiven you for your assault on me,” she wrote. “I know that my God was in control of even this situation. As you face time in jail, I pray that you will find peace in Jesus and turn your life around. Many people have been praying that you get the help that you need. I will continue to pray for you as my lord God brings you to mind. May you see the blessings of God even as you serve your sentence.”