A San Antonio Police Officer Accused of Tampering With Evidence in Sexual Assault Cases

SAN ANTONIO (AP) – A San Antonio police detective who was fired last year for what authorities say was his mishandling of more than 130 sexual assault and other cases now is facing several charges that he tampered with evidence.

An indictment filed Tuesday shows 46-year-old Kenneth Valdez is charged with eight counts of tampering with evidence.

He’s accused of concealing evidence and also of making false entries in the department’s record management system.

Valdez was arrested and posted bond Wednesday.

An Internal Affairs review last year determined he had not properly investigated more than 130 sexual assault and family violence cases.

Authorities say Valdez told investigators that he struggled with a high caseload, poor organizational skills and other issues.

He was fired in November and is appealing his dismissal.

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