Byron Yazzie, Jr., Sexual Abuse of a Minor, New Mexico 2023

A 22-year-old Tohatchi man has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for sexually abusing three minor victims, according to a recent press release from the office of the United States Attorney for the District of New Mexico.

Byron Yazzie, Jr. was indicted by a grand jury on June 15, 2022, for his crimes, which took place between August and November of 2020. The victims, all under the age of 16, were targeted by Yazzie through social media and other means.

According to court documents, Yazzie began a sexual relationship with a 12-year-old victim he met on Facebook in August of 2020. He also forced a second victim to engage in a sexual act on October 20, 2020, despite their objections. Additionally, on November 5, 2020, Yazzie gave a third victim alcohol, causing them to become intoxicated and incapable of participating in a sexual act.

On November 26, 2020, one of the victims disclosed the abuse to a family member, leading to Yazzie's arrest. During a subsequent interview with law enforcement, Yazzie admitted to the crimes.

Yazzie will be subject to supervised release for life and must register as a sex offender upon his release from prison.

The Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case, with Assistant United States Attorney Caitlin L. Dillon prosecuting the case.

This is a serious reminder of the devastating effects of sexual abuse on victims and their families. The Grimy Times will continue to bring you updates on this case and other stories of importance in our community.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-nm/pr/navajo-man-sentenced-20-years-prison-sexual-abuse-minor