Conviction Secured: Enrique Elizalde Sentenced to 25 Years for Sexual Abuse of Young Child in Amarillo Case

Amarillo, TX — In a deeply troubling and emotionally charged case, a Potter County jury has found Enrique Elizalde, a previously trusted family member, guilty of Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child. The conviction stems from a 2020 investigation into the abuse of a 3-year-old foster child and the subsequent disclosure from a second, older victim. Elizalde has been sentenced to 25 years in prison—a sentence he will serve in full without eligibility for parole, due to the age of the child at the time of the offense.

How the Investigation Began

In January 2020, the Amarillo Police Department began investigating after receiving a report concerning a 3-year-old girl in foster care who had tested positive for a sexually transmitted infection. The initial concern prompted an immediate and comprehensive investigation by APD’s Special Victims Unit.

Through their work, detectives identified Enrique Elizalde, a family member with whom the child had previously lived, as a primary suspect. During a recorded interview, Elizalde admitted to sexually touching the child once during her time in his home.

Additional Survivor Steps Forward

Following Elizalde’s arrest on that charge, a 13-year-old relative of his bravely came forward and disclosed that he had repeatedly sexually abused her as well. Her testimony painted a disturbing picture of ongoing abuse that had gone undetected until the younger child’s case came to light.

The Trial and Verdict

In June 2025, the case proceeded to trial in the 47th District Court of Potter County, overseen by Judge Dee Johnson. The jury heard from a wide range of witnesses including:

•Amarillo Police Department officers

•A forensic nurse trained in sexual assault cases

•Medical professionals

•Family members of both the defendant and victims

After reviewing all the evidence, the jury found Elizalde guilty of Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child and recommended a 25-year prison sentence. Due to the fact that the child was under six years old, Texas law requires that the sentence be served day-for-day, with no possibility of parole.

Community Response and Prosecutor’s Statement

The 47th District Attorney’s Office issued a statement following the trial, expressing gratitude to law enforcement, medical professionals, and the jury for their role in securing justice:

“Cases involving such young victims are incredibly difficult,” the office stated. “We commend the Amarillo Police Department for their diligent investigation, thank the medical community for their essential contributions, and are especially grateful to the jury for their thoughtful and just decision.”

District Attorney Jason Herring emphasized the significance of the verdict:

“This case is a sobering reminder of our duty to protect our most vulnerable. The jury’s decision reflects the serious commitment our community has to safeguarding children. We are proud to have brought this case to justice.”

A Message of Hope and Vigilance

While no legal outcome can erase the trauma endured by the victims, the conviction and maximum sentence send a strong message: our community does not tolerate abuse against children. It also highlights the critical importance of listening to and believing survivors, no matter their age.

Law enforcement urges anyone who suspects child abuse to report it immediately. Public vigilance and early intervention remain key to preventing future tragedies.

Verdicts like this do not just deliver justice—they help protect future generations from harm.