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This archival content was originally written for and published on KPCC.org. Keep in mind that links and images may no longer work — and references may be outdated.

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San Bernardino County couple sought for alleged torture of 5-year-old boy

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San Bernardino County authorities are on the hunt for a man and a woman wanted for allegedly torturing a 5-year-old boy.

Martin Roland Morales and his wife Crystal Pauline Rodriguez are charged with torture, child abuse and false imprisonment.

San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department investigators say Morales, 32, repeatedly abused a boy at the couple’s rented home in Apple Valley. It’s not clear if the youngster is a relative. They say he was burned, deprived of food and water, and sexually assaulted.

Authorities are looking for other male suspects who might have taken part in the abuse.

Morales is an Eastlake Gang member who goes by the nickname “Bullet.” He’s 5-11 and 280 pounds, with tattoos across his shaved head. Authorities say Morales is armed and dangerous. He allegedly said he’d “shoot it out” with deputies if they tried to arrest him.

The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department says Morales and Rodriguez may have fled to L.A. County.

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