Firefighters Accused of Gang Rape Searched Google to Avoid DNA Evidence, Texts Show

ALBUQUERQUE, New Mexico – Three firefighters from Albuquerque Fire Rescue are facing charges of second-degree rape for allegedly gang-raping the sister of a colleague. The accused trio is said to have exchanged text messages in the aftermath of the incident, expressing their determination to keep quiet about the crime. Court documents revealed that the firefighters even searched Google for information on how to evade detection of the crime.

The accused individuals include Albuquerque Fire Rescue Lt. Aden Heyman, 46, Firefighter Angel Portillo, 32, and retired driver Anthony Martin, 44. The alleged incident occurred on July 15th, 2023, after a local golf tournament when Portillo and Martin went back to Martin’s home with the victim and her sister. The victim and her sister told authorities that they had been drinking all day during the golf tournament and had gone back to Martin’s place where they “were swimming, laughing and having fun.” But things took a dark turn when Heyman arrived at the house, as reported by local news outlets.

Investigations also uncovered text messages that Portillo allegedly sent to the victim’s sister, expressing regret and admitting that alcohol influenced questionable decisions. Furthermore, Heyman reportedly ran a web search on “How long does DNA stay in the vagina,” three weeks after the attack, in what seemed to be an attempt to dissociate themselves from the crime.

The victim shared with investigators that she suddenly felt unwell and “began to fade,” before passing out. Upon regaining consciousness, Heyman was allegedly instructing the other two on how to assault her. She managed to escape through a bathroom window and was later found curled up and crying outside the apartment complex.

The accused firefighters are currently facing charges of second-degree rape, and the case continues to unfold as law enforcement officials gather further evidence and testimonies.