Gilbert police ask for public’s help identifying person of interest in sexual assault investigation

PHOENIX — The Gilbert Police Department is asking for the public’s help identifying a person of interest in a sexual assault investigation.

Police said that the investigation began in December 2025 after a report of alleged long-term sexual abuse and violence, adding that two arrests have already been made in connection with the case, including the victim’s husband.

Investigators determined that the victim’s husband allegedly solicited men online to sexually assault her.

Police are seeking help identifying a third individual who authorities said was captured in a video.

Anyone who recognizes the individual or has information that could aid the investigation is asked to contact Gilbert police at 480-503-6500.

Details on Gilbert sexual assault investigation, previous arrests

In January, police arrested the victim’s husband — 38-year-old Austin Nelson — and 41-year-old Evan Torres in connection with the investigation.

Nelson allegedly drugged his wife and coordinated a multi-person effort online to sexually assault her while she was unconscious, according to authorities. Police added that Nelson recorded multiple instances of assault.

He was arrested by the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office and booked into jail on charges of unlawfully administering intoxicating liquors, narcotic drug or dangerous drug, voyeurism, unlawful disclosure of nude images and facilitating sexual assault.

Meanwhile, Torres is alleged to have engaged in sexual intercourse with the victim while she was unconscious and unable to consent. He was booked into jail on a sexual assault charge.

The investigation is ongoing.

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