A North Platte man has been accused of inappropriately touching the child of a family friend.

On July 29, 2014, North Platte Police launched an investigation into a possible sexual assault of a child in the 800 block of North Jeffers.

According to Investigator John Deal, a parent had contacted police and reported that their 7-year-old child had been sexually touched by a family friend.

Deal said the incident was investigated and the child was interviewed at the Bridge of Hope Child Advocacy Center.

It was alleged that 35-year-old Cris Perez had made sexual contact with the juvenile’s genital area.  Deal said no penetration was involved.

Following an investigation, investigators determined that there was probable cause to arrest Perez.

On September 18, Perez was contacted in the 2400 block of West 9th Street, and placed under arrest.

He’s been charged with 3rd degree sexual assault of a child.

Perez was jailed at the Lincoln County Detention Center.