HUNTSVILLE– An Indiana man faces a federal charge alleging he traveled to Marshall County to engage in illegal sexual activity with a minor.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Alabama announced the indictment Tuesday against Joel Duron Esparza, 21, of Middlebury, Indiana.
FBI Arrested Esparza in Indiana
A one-count indictment charges Esparza with interstate travel with intent to engage in a sexual act with a minor.
According to the indictment, Esparza traveled from Indiana to Marshall County on May 2, 2026. The FBI arrested him at his Indiana residence on Aug. 10, 2026.
Additionally, federal prosecutors said the charge carries a maximum penalty of 30 years.
U.S. Attorney Phillip W. Williams Jr. called the alleged conduct “abhorrent criminal behavior” and thanked the FBI and other law enforcement partners. Williams said his office would continue working to protect children throughout the Northern District of Alabama.
Meanwhile, FBI Birmingham Special Agent in Charge David R. Fitzgibbons said crimes against children are intolerable. He said the indictment reflects law enforcement’s commitment to pursuing alleged offenders and holding them accountable.
The FBI investigated the case with the Marshall County Sheriff’s Office.
Additionally, Assistant U.S. Attorney Sara M. Judah is prosecuting the case. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Indiana also provided assistance.
Reporting Suspected Child Exploitation
Federal prosecutors brought the case under Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide Justice Department initiative launched in 2006. Moreover, the program coordinates federal, state, and local resources to identify victims and pursue offenders.
Anyone who suspects possible sexual exploitation of a child should contact law enforcement. The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children also accepts reports through its CyberTipline.
Finally, an indictment contains allegations and does not establish guilt. Esparza is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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