Volunteers collecting essential supplies through noon tomorrow at East Old 83 donation site
Sex Abuse Charges: Former Juvenile Officer Accused of Assaulting Teen Inmate in Edinburg
Yuliana Mares faces prison time after being charged with improper sexual activity and child indecency at a state correctional facility.
Published April 23 2025
Sex Abuse Charges: Former Juvenile Officer Accused of Assaulting Teen Inmate in Edinburg
EDINBURG, TX – A former juvenile corrections officer has been arrested and charged following disturbing allegations of sexual abuse involving a minor inmate at a state-run facility in the Rio Grande Valley.
Yuliana Mares, 40, is accused of engaging in improper sexual activity with a 16-year-old male inmate at the Edinburg Evans State Juvenile Correctional Facility. The charges stem from an incident reported in February, according to authorities.
Morris now faces two serious felony charges:
- Improper sexual activity with a person in custody
- Indecency with a child
If convicted, she could face up to $20,000 in fines and a prison sentence ranging from two years to life, reflecting the gravity of the alleged abuse and her former position of authority.
Legal Consequences Ahead
Mares was arrested shortly after charges were filed and is awaiting her next court appearance. Prosecutors have indicated that additional charges could be added as the investigation continues.
The case underscores broader concerns over staff conduct and accountability in juvenile detention centers, where power imbalances can make it difficult for victims to speak out.
Reporting Abuse & Seeking Support
If you or someone you know has experienced abuse in a correctional or custodial setting, confidential support is available:
- Texas Juvenile Justice Department Abuse Reporting
https://www.tjjd.texas.gov
Report Hotline: 📞 (956) 289-5500 - Texas Abuse Hotline:
https://www.txabusehotline.org
24/7 Hotline: 📞 (800) 252-5400
As legal proceedings unfold, public officials and watchdog groups continue to monitor this case closely, calling for full transparency and justice for the victim involved.
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