Raton Woman Released on Bond Amid Child Abuse Allegations

Background of the Case

Amber Seay, a 34-year-old resident of Raton, New Mexico, has been released on a $1,000 bond following serious allegations of child sexual abuse. The accusations stem from a disturbing incident reported on May 15, 2025, when one of her children called 911, alleging sexual abuse that reportedly lasted for six years. Seay is accused of permitting and participating in the abuse alongside her partner, William Jackson Street, 49.

Details of the Allegations

According to court documents, the abuse occurred at their family home in Raton, where the minor disclosed that Street had raped her, sometimes in Seay’s presence. Following the 911 call, local law enforcement contacted the New Mexico Children, Youth and Families Department (CYFD), which dispatched a caseworker. A safety plan was implemented allowing Seay to stay with her children as long as Street left the residence immediately.

Legal Proceedings

Seay’s release follows a plea agreement signed on November 20, 2025, where she pleaded guilty to three second-degree felonies. This agreement includes a potential sentence of up to 15 years, contingent upon her cooperation with the prosecution against Street, who faces 33 felony counts, including child rape and child abuse. The 8th Judicial District Attorney’s Office initially sought to detain Seay without bond, but this was reversed as part of her plea deal.

Fleeing from Justice

After informing police of Street’s flight from New Mexico on May 20, Seay also fled with her two children before a scheduled forensic interview could be conducted. The couple was eventually apprehended in Joplin, Missouri, following a multi-state pursuit involving the FBI and local authorities. Street has been fighting extradition back to New Mexico.

Response from CYFD and Community Concerns

The CYFD’s handling of the case has drawn criticism, particularly regarding its decision to allow Seay to remain with the children under a safety plan. Advocates like Maralyn Beck from the New Mexico Child First Network argue that CYFD should have exercised its authority to remove the children immediately, as state law permits emergency custody under suspected danger. CYFD’s communications director acknowledged system failures while emphasizing that safety plans can only be effective if parents comply with them.

Wider Implications for Child Welfare in New Mexico

This case highlights the ongoing challenges faced by New Mexico in addressing child abuse. With over 11,000 reported victims of child maltreatment in 2023, the state grapples with limited resources and systemic issues that can hinder prompt interventions. Nationally, data indicates that 1 in 4 girls are affected by sexual abuse, often involving family members, underscoring the urgent need for effective child protection mechanisms.

As legal proceedings continue for both Seay and Street, the focus remains on the welfare of the children involved and the broader implications for child protection policies in New Mexico.