Transgender woman found guilty of sexually abusing 10-year-old girl

A transgender woman from Wyoming, United States, has been convicted of sexually assaulting a 10-year-old girl, US media reported.

Miguel Martinez, a biological male who identifies as Michelle, may be jailed for up to 70 years after she was found guilty of first- and second-degree sexual abuse of a minor on Thursday (Oct 19).

Martinez, a friend of the victim's family, touched the girl's breasts and genitals before penetrating her in a bathroom on March 23 this year.

The victim's mother reported the assault at Casper police department, where the girl told the police that "it hurt inside."

Redness and abrasions were found around the child's genitals during a sexual assault examination at Wyoming Medical Center.

Martinez was found to be drunk on the night of the assault and had a breathalyser reading of 0.22, which was four times the legal limit of 0.05.

When questioned by the police, Martinez was hostile and defensive, and even said that the girl had been "talking nonsense."

Martinez also denied being a child molestor and pleaded not guilty on both counts in May, The Tribune reported.

She will receive her sentence at a later date.

minlee@sph.com.sg