An early-morning break-in on the East Side turned into a fast arrest after police say a New Mexico man crawled through a window and assaulted a 20-year-old woman inside her own home on Wednesday, April 29. The case on the 1500 block of Lomaland is back in the spotlight this week after authorities confirmed the final charges and bond amounts.
Police account
According to El Paso police, officers were dispatched around 4:50 a.m. to a reported burglary in progress at a residence on the 1500 block of Lomaland. When they went inside, officers say they found a man still in the home.
Investigators identified the suspect as 24-year-old Tristan Joel Coriz of New Mexico. Police say Coriz got in through a window and assaulted the woman who lives there. He was taken into custody without incident and booked into the El Paso County Detention Facility.
Coriz was charged with burglary of a habitation with intent to commit another felony and burglary of a habitation. Police say bonds were set at $150,000 and $50,000, respectively, according to CBS4.
What the charge means
Under Texas law, burglary of a habitation covers entering a home without the owner's consent with the intent to commit a felony, theft, or assault. It is treated as a serious felony offense, and potential penalties depend on the crime that was allegedly intended. Punishments can be enhanced when violent felonies are involved. The legal definitions and sentencing ranges are laid out in Texas Penal Code §30.02.
Why the case is being reported now
Although the arrest happened in late April, officials only recently released detailed charging information and bond figures, which sparked renewed media attention on the case. Court dates were not listed in the report, and the investigation is still active, according to CBS4.
How neighbors can help
Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact El Paso police or call the department's non-emergency line at (915) 832-4400. For emergencies, residents should dial 911. The El Paso Police Department's reporting page explains how to submit tips and request copies of reports for investigators to review.
