Jury Returns Guilty Verdict in Abuse Case: DA’s Office Secures Conviction Against Michael Ybarra

Doña Ana District Attorney Fernando R. Macias announces a successful outcome in the prosecution of Michael Ybarra, who was found guilty of three counts of second-degree criminal sexual penetration and three counts of criminal sexual conduct in the third degree.  The U.S. Marshals Service arrested 44-year-old Michael Ybarra in January of 2024 on charges of criminal sexual penetration in the third degree, incest, criminal sexual penetration in the fourth degree (child 13 to 18), and criminal sexual contact of a minor in the fourth degree (child 13 to 18).

U.S. Marshals picked up Ybarra on the 2200 block of Holiday and booked into the Dona Ana County Detention Center prior to the case going to trial this month. 

Deputy District Attorneys Tomas Medina and Anne Swank led the prosecution, whose dedication and courtroom excellence led to this important conviction. The jury delivered a decisive verdict, holding the defendant accountable for the abuse.

“Child sex abuse cases are particularly difficult to prosecute because they thrive in secrecy and shame,” said Deputy District Attorney Anne Swank. “The victim showed tremendous courage by facing her abuser in court, which ultimately led to his conviction today. Thanks to her bravery, other children in the community are now protected from harm. My sincere hope is that she finds peace and continues to heal.”

“We are deeply grateful to our office staff and to the investigative partners who worked on this case,” added Deputy District Attorney Tomas Medina. “Most of all, we are thankful for the victim’s courage and her willingness to face her abuser to bring him to justice.”
This case reflects the unwavering commitment of the Doña Ana District Attorney’s Office to protect our most vulnerable community members and pursue justice on behalf of victims and their families.

“This case was deeply disturbing, and today’s verdict sends a clear message that justice will be served—especially in cases involving the abuse of vulnerable victims,” said District Attorney Fernando R. Macias. “The Defendant is scheduled for sentencing on May 30th, and the office will be seeking a lengthy sentence.”

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