Cheektowaga, N.Y. (WBEN) - A migrant accused of raping a fellow migrant he knew in front of their three-year-old child in a Cheektowaga hotel last week was in court for his felony hearing.
Jesus Guzman-Bermudez appeared before Cheektowaga Town Justice David Stevens on Wednesday, as he was dressed in an orange jumpsuit and in handcuffs. The 26-year-old is facing charges of rape, unlawful imprisonment and endangering the welfare of a child after he was arrested this past Friday.
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During the very brief hearing, Judge Stevens ordered for Guzman-Bermudez to remain held in custody of police without bail, while a stay away order also remains in effect.
In addition, it was discussed that the Grand Jury has taken action with this case, and conducting its own investigation into whether or not additional charges will be added.
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During an interview with WBEN on Tuesday, Erie County District Attorney John Flynn said his only concern about this case going forward is a language barrier, being that Guzman-Bermudez is from Venezuela. There was a translator present in the court room to communicate with the suspect.
"The felony hearing was adjourned as our office has filed an affidavit with the Court pursuant to New York State Criminal Procedure Law Article 180.80 pending action of the Grand Jury," said District Attorney Flynn in a statement on Wednesday's hearing. "The defendant continues to be held without bail and the temporary no-contact order of protection, issued on behalf of the victim, remains in effect. A return court date has not been scheduled at this time."