TRAVIS COUNTY, Texas — Officials are searching for a man convicted of aggravated sexual assault last week.
The Travis County District Attorney's Office said on Thursday, March 28, a jury convicted 56-year-old Hai Vo of aggravated sexual assault. However, on Friday, March 29, Vo did not appear for the punishment phase of his trial. Now, there's an active warrant out for his arrest.
Vo was convicted in connection with a sexual assault that occurred on Jan. 26, 2020. According to court documents, Vo sexually assaulted a 24-year-old woman who had intellectual and cognitive disabilities, including cerebral palsy and severe epilepsy.
The DA's office said Vo was arrested on May 13, 2020, and charged with aggravated sexual assault. On July 25, 2023, he was re-indicted with the offense in preparation for his trial, according to the DA's office.
Jury selection for Vo's trial began on Monday, March 25, and testimony started on Tuesday. On Thursday, the jury deliberated for three hours before finding Vo guilty.
The DA's office said after the jury convicted Vo, it requested that Vo be detained, but the judge denied that request.
"It is disappointing that the victim and their family must continue to wait for the defendant to be held accountable after our team secured his conviction," Travis County DA José Garza said.
On Friday, Vo did not appear in court for the punishment phase of his trial, but the jury assessed his punishment at 10 years in prison. He must also pay $455 in fees.
The DA's office said law enforcement officials are actively seeking to apprehend Vo.
KVUE has requested clarification from officials about why Vo wasn't in custody and why the judge denied the request for detainment following his conviction.