Former Bridgeport Resident Faces Sexual Assault Charges

BRIDGEPORT, CT — A former Bridgeport resident, now 58 years old, was extradited back to Connecticut late last year from Patilla, Puerto Rico, to stand trial on charges that he sexually assaulted two female minors in Bridgeport in the 1990s.

Luis Manuel Rivera was accused of repeatedly sexually assaulting the girls, and is charged with the following:

• Sexual Assault in the 1st Degree (5 counts)
• Sexual Assault in the 4th Degree (3 counts)
• Risk of Injury to a Child (4 counts)

Rivera's arrest, and subsequent extradition, were carried out with the cooperation of law enforcement in both Puerto Rico and Bridgeport.

"This collaborative effort reflects our collective commitment to holding individuals accountable for crimes against children and ensuring the safety and well-being of our communities," authorities said in a statement.

Rivera remains in the custody of the Connecticut Department of Corrections, and he is next scheduled to appear in court on Feb. 22.

Bridgeport Police Capt. Kevin Gilleran said that the case was expertly worked on by members of the department's Detective Bureau.

"I would like to thank BPD Detectives Laura Azevedo-Rasuk and Elizabeth Santora for their dedication during this investigation," Gilleran said. "I commend them for protecting the citizens in our community by pursuing those suspects who seek to harm defenseless children. They are both committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for anyone who wishes to come forward, share their experiences, and seek the justice they deserve."

Anyone with information regarding the case is asked to contact the case officer, Detective Laura Azevedo-Rasuk, at 203-581-5235, or leave a tip on the Bridgeport Police Tips Line at 203-576-TIPS.

From the announcement:

If you have knowledge or suspicion that a child has been abused, please call the Connecticut Department of Children and Families (800-842-2288) and/or your local police department.

The Center for Family Justice (CFJ) provides free, confidential, 24/7, crisis support services for domestic violence, sexual violence, human trafficking, and child abuse in the Fairfield County area. They can be reached at 203-333-2233 (sexual assault hotline).