A 37-year-old Willis man, Mathew Young, is behind bars on a child-indecency charge after San Jacinto County authorities said he sexually assaulted a young family member. Investigators say the case is very much active and are urging anyone with information to speak up, according to ABC13.
Court records show Young has prior convictions for assaulting family members and a previous indecent-assault matter in Montgomery County. Sheriff Sam Houston said investigators intend to pursue the case to the fullest extent allowed under the law.
What the charge means under Texas law
Under Texas law, "indecency with a child" covers sexual contact or exposure and is codified at Penal Code §21.11. Indecency by sexual contact is a second-degree felony, while indecency by exposure is a third-degree felony. That distinction matters because contact can bring significantly tougher penalties and longer prison terms if proven in court. For the statutory language, see Texas Penal Code §21.11 on Justia.
Detectives urge other potential victims to step forward
San Jacinto County detectives say they have already received calls and believe there could be additional victims. They are asking anyone who may have been harmed, or who has information about Young, to contact investigators or Crime Stoppers.
"If you are a victim of this guy, reach out to us, reach out to our detective division, and you can stay anonymous, but you are safe now," Detective Omar Sheikh told reporters, as per ABC13. The sheriff's office has declined to release additional details while detectives work the case and follow up on leads.
How to reach investigators
Anyone with information is asked to contact the San Jacinto County Sheriff's Office or Crime Stoppers. Contact details and the county courthouse address are available on the county website. County officials say the detective division receives tips and will protect the confidentiality of callers. Phone numbers and addresses are listed on the county contact page: San Jacinto County.
Legal next steps
If prosecutors move forward with indecency charges based on sexual contact, the offense is a second-degree felony under Texas law and carries potential prison time if there is a conviction. Those convicted of reportable sex offenses may also be required to register under the state's sex-offender program.
The Texas Department of Public Safety maintains the statewide sex-offender registry and outlines registration and reporting obligations for people who are required to register; full guidance is available from Texas DPS. The investigation is ongoing. Authorities say they will release more information as the case develops and again urged anyone with tips to contact the sheriff's office or Crime Stoppers.
