VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) — A disturbing situation is unfolding in Virginia Beach involving an 11-year-old girl and a home renovation worker — and the details are graphic.
Ricardo Meija, 35, who the family had reportedly hired to remodel their bathroom, is facing three counts of raping a victim younger than 13-years-old, among other charges. His attorney, Eric Korslund, said Meija has also been charged with one count of burglary and another count of indecent liberties.
A search warrant reveals the family was awakened at 2:30 a.m. Oct. 9 — they heard a noise coming from their daughter’s bedroom.
Court records state that the girl’s bedroom was locked and the parents forced the door open using a butter knife. It was then that they saw a naked man climbing out of the window.
“He’s pleading not guilty at the moment,” said defense attorney Eric Korslund. “I mean, certainly that’s subject to change. We’re at a very early stage in the case.”
According to court records, the child told nurses the man had broken in through the window and raped her on at least two other occasions. On the night of the reported assault, phone records place Mejia near the victim’s home.
Korslund also said Mejia was cooperative with police and answered all of their questions.
Meija’s next court date is set for Dec. 18. If convicted, Meija could face a life sentence.
Resources are available for survivors of sexual assault:
RAINN — the Rape Abuse and Incest National Network offers a hotline that can help those in need. The number is 800-656-HOPE. It’s free and confidential.
