APD Arrests Registered Sex Offender found with two Juvenile Runaways in his home

ALBUQUERQUE – The Albuquerque Police Department has arrested a registered sex offender after two juvenile runaways were located inside his residence.

Joseph Lacour-Benavidez, 42, is a registered sex offender for the rape of a 12 year-old back in 2002. On April 21, 2025 detectives were alerted that two runaway juveniles 14 and 11, had left a foster home and were believed to be at Lacour-Benavidez’s residence. 

Detectives made contact with Lacour-Benavidez and his mother at their home in the southwest area command. When detectives entered the residence they located the 11 and 14 year-olds inside Joseph’s bedroom.

Text conversations located between Joseph and the 14 year-old revealed the two had a sexual relationship that had been going on for several months. Through the investigation, detectives learned the 14 year-old was introduced to Lacour-Benavidez through his girlfriend.

At this time, it is not believed that the 11 year-old child was the victim of a sexual assault but did know the other child through the foster care system.

Lacour-Benavidez has been charged with 12 counts of Criminal Sexual Penetration Second Degree, Criminal Sexual Communication with a Minor and Contributing to thte Delinquency of a Minor.

More individuals could face charges as this investigation continues.

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