Jury convicts defendant on rape and child sex abuse charges

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FEBRUARY 12, 2026

WICHITA, Kan. — A Sedgwick County jury on Wednesday found Yulder Valencia-Diaz guilty on all counts related to the sexual assault of a minor and the subsequent obstruction of a criminal investigation.

After approximately an hour of deliberation, the jury returned guilty verdicts for rape, aggravated indecent liberties with a child, and interference with law enforcement. The charges stemmed from an investigation launched in 2024 following a report made to 911.

Prosecutors presented evidence during the trial showing that Valencia-Diaz engaged in sexual misconduct with a child.

Under Kansas law, the convictions for rape and aggravated indecent liberties with a child carry mandatory prison sentences and require the defendant to register as a sex offender for life.

A sentencing hearing is scheduled for March 27 before District Court Judge Kathleen Watson.

The District Attorney’s Office extends its gratitude to the Wichita Police Department for their thorough investigation and commitment to public safety.