Lubbock Criminal Defense Attorney Secures Not Guilty Verdict for Catholic Priest in Indecent Assault Case

LUBBOCK, TEXAS — Travis Wiebold successfully defended a former Slaton Catholic priest against charges of indecent assault and unlawful restraint, securing a complete acquittal after a jury trial in Lubbock County Court at Law #2.

The defendant, faced two Class A misdemeanor charges, each carrying a potential sentence of up to one year in the Lubbock County Jail. Following closing arguments delivered by Attorney Wiebold, the jury deliberated for just over two hours before returning not guilty verdicts on both counts on December 16, 2025.

Understanding Indecent Assault Charges in Texas

Indecent assault became law in Texas in September 2019 through Texas Penal Code Section 22.012, filling what lawmakers viewed as a gap in the criminal justice system. Prior to this legislation, Texas was among six states lacking specific laws addressing non-penetrative and unwanted sexual contact.

The charge of indecent assault addresses behaviors including:

• Non-consensual touching of intimate body parts

• Attempting to expose another person’s private areas

• Other sexually motivated contact without consent

As a Class A misdemeanor, indecent assault carries penalties of up to one year in county jail and fines up to $4,000.

Indecent Assault Offense in Texas

According to Fort Worth Police Department data, between September 1, 2019, and May 2024, only 87 out of 10,407 misdemeanor assault cases involved indecent assault charges. This represents less than one percent of all misdemeanor assault cases, making it a relatively uncommon charge despite the serious nature of the allegations.

The prosecution must prove two critical elements for conviction: that the alleged conduct was non-consensual and that the accused acted with intent to arouse or gratify sexual desire. These evidentiary requirements create substantial challenges for prosecutors and opportunities for skilled defense attorneys.

The Defense Strategy

In this case, the defense team successfully challenged the prosecution’s evidence and witness credibility. Court testimony revealed conflicting accounts and inconsistencies in the alleged victim’s statements throughout the investigative process.

The case exemplifies the complexities inherent in “he said, she said” situations where physical evidence is limited and outcomes depend heavily on witness credibility assessments and the reasonable doubt standard.

Why Experienced Criminal Defense Matters

Indecent assault cases carry serious consequences beyond potential incarceration. While convictions for indecent assault do not currently require sex offender registration in Texas, they create permanent criminal records that can impact employment, professional licensing, housing opportunities, and personal relationships.

The social stigma associated with sex-related offenses makes aggressive, experienced legal representation essential from the moment charges are filed. Early intervention by a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney can significantly impact case outcomes through thorough investigation, witness interviews, and strategic case development.

About Chappell, Lanehart & Stangl

Chappell, Lanehart & Stangl provides criminal defense throughout Lubbock and the surrounding South Plains. The firm represents clients accused of misdemeanor to felony charges, including assault offenses, sex crimes, DWI, drug charges, and other serious criminal matters.

If you or a loved one faces indecent assault charges or other criminal allegations in Lubbock County, contact Chappell, Lanehart & Stangl for a confidential consultation.