Misdemeanor charges could halt Fresno teen's military hopes

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- A teenager charged with vandalizing a catholic church in Northwest Fresno has pleaded not guilty to the crime. Aaron Nevarez entered the plea in Fresno County court.

Nevarez wants to go into the Marine Corps and this charge could stand in the way. ABC30 asked military officials if the charge is eventually dismissed, whether Nevarez could still serve his country.

Nevarez was in court with his father. Cameras were not allowed inside the courtroom when he pleaded not guilty to one misdemeanor count of vandalism of a religious property.

Normally, these charges do not include a jail sentence and eventually can be taken off of a criminal record. ABC30 Legal Analyst Tony Capozzi says a single element sets this crime apart.

"Normally vandalism isn't that serious of a crime and indeed it's normally a misdemeanor," said Capozzi. "This one's a misdemeanor, but because it's of a religious property, it's taken much more serious than normal misdemeanor."

Nevarez is accused of taking part in vandalizing Saint Anthony's of Padua Catholic church in early September. His younger brother is alleged to have of been the instigator. He is also facing criminal charges.

Nevarez was enrolled into the early entry training program for the Marine Corps but was discharged immediately when he was arrested. At this point, military officials say the current charge is a problem for Nevarez that cannot be overlooked.

"Well Sontaya, questionable moral character is not admissible," said Sgt. Jacob Harrer. "So if Aaron Nevarez is convicted of this offense, then he will not be allowed back into the Marine Corps."

Police say Nevarez and his brother called themselves the 'Merry Men.' They also say they were tied to a bomb threat at Bullard High School last month that caused the entire campus to be evacuated.

So far, we do not know about any plea deal. Nevarez will be back in court next month.