Psychotherapist indicted for allegedly having sex with juvenile inmate, distribution of controlled substance to a minor

A psychotherapist has been indicted for crimes she allegedly committed at a juvenile correctional facility in New Mexico.

Julie Barham of Carrizozo, New Mexico, has been indicted on seven counts of Criminal Sexual Penetration in the Second Degree (Inmate); Distribution of a Controlled Substance to a Minor;

Bringing Contraband into a Juvenile Correctional Facility; and, Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor.

On February 8, 2015 J.C.A., a minor, alerted staff of the Lincoln Pines Youth Center (a Children Youth and Families Department detention facility) regarding an alleged sexual relationship between he and his psychotherapist, 36-year-old Julie Barham.

J.C.A. reported that Barham gave him prescription medication which was not prescribed to him. He also alleged that she would crush and snort the medication with him prior to engaging in sexual intercourse.

J.C.A. reported that Barham promised to sneak him in more contraband if he “behaved.”

Barham was only recently hired by Lincoln Pines Youth Center.

Authorities say a search warrant of Barham’s home later revealed that Barham had a prescription for the drugs that J.C.A. had reported that Barham supplied.

The New Mexico State Police conducted a thorough, professional investigation in this matter interviewing every member of the staff of LPYC, and collecting evidence.

Children Youth and Families has been very cooperative in having this matter investigated and pursuing a resolution in the matter.