Groping Suspect Is In U.S. Illegally, Has Prior Arrest Record

DENVER (CBS4)- The man accused of groping several women and a young girl in Denver remains behind bars on a $20,000 bond. Juan Hernandez-Vargas is in the U.S. illegally and has a prior arrest record.

Although neighbors are happy he is off the streets they remain concerned over the nature of the crimes.

"Very concerned that people of that nature are right among us," said Ed, one man who lives in the neighborhood where Vargas lived.

"Knowing that he lived next door, I'm lost for words. I don't know what to say," said a former neighbor who called herself "Mary."

Vargas is accused of groping seven women in the Denver metro area over the past several weeks.

Vargas was arrested following an extensive surveillance operation in several areas where the assaults happened, including alleys near the University of Denver. The suspect allegedly groped a teenager in one such alley.

Police have not released his picture because they are still using it in the investigation.

Vargas is an illegal immigrant who has been voluntarily returned to Mexico at least once and possibly several times. He will be placed into immigration custody when he's released from local control.

"I have girls of my own and it's nerve wracking to know I actually had him living next door to me the whole time," said "Mary."

Vargas has a prior arrest record that includes assault, disturbing the peace and obstructing police.