DALLAS, TX — A Dallas County jury has returned a guilty verdict in a complex case involving the prolonged grooming and sexual abuse of a minor. 23-year-old Yostin Kener Reaños-Velasquez was found guilty on March 25, 2026, of Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Child Under the Age of 14.
Following the conviction, Judge Lela Lawrence Mays sentenced Reaños-Velasquez to 25 years in prison, explicitly stating the term is to be served without the possibility of parole.
A Case of Grooming and Deception
The prosecution presented evidence that Reaños-Velasquez, a citizen of Honduras who required a translator during the proceedings, began an ongoing sexual relationship with the victim when he was 21 years old.
The trial highlighted the difficult nature of child abuse dynamics:
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Grooming Tactics: The defendant utilized grooming techniques to build a relationship with the victim, who was under the age of 14.
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Victim Perception: Because of these dynamics, the victim believed she was in a legitimate relationship and initially did not believe the defendant had committed a crime.
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Expert Testimony: To overcome these complexities, the state relied on forensic interviewers and therapists who provided expert testimony to explain how abusers manipulate children into silence or compliance.
Collaborative Law Enforcement Effort
The investigation was led by the Dallas Police Department, with significant support from the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS).
The trial team included Lead Prosecutor Delayna Griffin, supported by Second Chair Marquita Ruff. Critical assistance in managing the victim's needs and the complexities of the case was provided by DA Investigator Crystal Gregan and Victim Advocate Flor de la Fuente.
"Through the work of law enforcement, forensic interviewers, and expert testimony explaining child abuse dynamics, the jury was able to understand the evidence and return a guilty verdict," the DA's Office noted following the sentencing.
