Man in rape raps nabbed

By Jennifer P. Rendon

A 36-year-old man accused of sexual molestation was arrested morning of July 26, 2021 in Balasan, Iloilo.

Members of Balasan Police Station collared Judie Lenciano at his house in Barangay Cabalic, Balasan.

The suspect has a standing warrant of arrest for rape by carnal knowledge in Criminal Case No. 2020-9647.

Judge Jose Mauricio E Gomez of the Regional Trial Court Branch 66, Barotac Viejo, Iloilo, issued the warrant on Nov 9, 2020 with no bail.

Lenciano is listed as Balasan’s No. 10 most wanted person.

Major Samuel Vipinosa, Balasan police chief, said Lenciano was charged for allegedly raping a then 16-year-old girl who was his neighbor and distant relative.

After the arrest warrant was issued, the suspect was not seen in Balasan until recently.

Vipinosa said the complainant, who already has her own family, is in talks with the suspect’s camp for a possible amicable settlement.

The complainant has expressed willingness to drop the case.

But until the case is settled, Lenciano would still be detained.