Judge issues ten-year probation for defendant denied contact with minors

In a significant ruling on May 9, 2025, Judge Stephanie Boyd of the 187th District Court imposed a ten-year deferred adjudication sentence on a defendant in a case involving a former child victim, now an adult. The court's decision came after careful consideration of the circumstances surrounding the case, including the defendant's lack of contact with the victim and the nature of the allegations.

The defendant, who has been living in Cheyenne, Wyoming, for the past six years, was found to pose a risk around minors, leading the judge to prohibit any contact with children as part of the sentencing conditions. The court mandated that the defendant must also register as a sex offender, undergo regular reporting, and complete a treatment evaluation while in custody.

The plea agreement, which included a $1,500 fine, was reached after the complainant, now an adult, expressed a desire to avoid further legal complications. Judge Boyd noted that had the complainant still been a minor, the outcome would have been different, emphasizing the importance of the victim's current status in the court's decision-making process.

Additionally, the court discussed the possibility of transferring the defendant's probation to Wyoming, contingent upon acceptance by the local authorities there. This transfer would allow the defendant to reintegrate into the community where he has established his life.

The meeting also included procedural discussions regarding upcoming cases, with a reset scheduled for another defendant, Abel Hernandez, to return to court on June 26, 2025.

This ruling highlights the court's commitment to balancing justice for victims with the rehabilitation of offenders, while ensuring the safety of the community remains a top priority.