Former D.C. Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services (DYRS) employee Kelvin Powell, 63, was found guilty by a D.C. Superior Court jury on all counts today, stemming from the sexual abuse of a 17-year-old minor ward under his care.
The jury deliberated for one day after an eight-day trial, finding Powell guilty of sixteen counts including first and second-degree sexual abuse charges against both the minor ward and as a ward. Sentencing is scheduled for September 5, 2025.
According to evidence presented, Powell served as a Youth Development Representative (YDR) at DYRS’ Youth Services Center (YSC), where he had custody of juvenile residents. Prosecutors claim Powell used his position to repeatedly abuse the minor, taking advantage of the power imbalance and her vulnerability under his protection.
United States Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro emphasized the severity of the crimes committed by Powell, noting that the prosecution would pursue justice to its fullest extent. FBI Assistant Director in Charge Steven Jensen highlighted the importance of this verdict in holding those who abuse their authority accountable.
The trial revealed that between December 2021 and February 2022, Powell repeatedly isolated the minor in areas without surveillance cameras to commit sexual acts and contacts. A video surveillance incident captured Powell groping the minor’s clothed buttocks, further solidifying the jury’s decision.
Powell faces a maximum statutory penalty of up to 15 years for first-degree sexual abuse of a minor and five years for second-degree sexual abuse of a ward. The case was investigated by the FBI’s Washington Field Office with assistance from the Metropolitan Police Department and the U.S. Marshals Service, prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Tim Visser, Jessica Wash, and Niki Holmes.
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Key Facts
- State: Washington DC
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Violent Crime|Sex Crimes|Public Corruption
- Source: Official Source ↗
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