Maya Hayes, 46, is accused of abusing her position as clinician at Brookwood Secure Center for years.

Columbia County District Attorney Chris Liberati-Conant said his office made this case a priority.

“Because of the extensive harm, because of the vulnerability of the victims, and because of the outrageousness of the acts alleged in our indictment,” he said.

Hayes was arraigned Friday on charges of criminal sex act and rape.

“My understanding is a staff member at the facility, at Brookwood Secure Center, discovered contraband which led to an investigation from State Police into the goings-on there, with respect to Ms. Hayes,” said Liberati-Conant.

Investigators said she would tell teenaged patients to do things like sex acts or to jump other kids, and threatened if they didn’t do what she said, she would write bad reports and make sure they don’t go home.

“These are vulnerable people entrusted to the custody of the state. They have a right, and their families have a right, to know that they will be treated fairly and that they will be safe there,” said the district attorney. “The allegations here beyond the sex acts also include allegations that Ms. Hayes extracted money from residents in order for favorable reports. She was telling them that they wouldn’t go home if they revealed what was happening to her, that she would make sure that they stayed in OCFS custody or in fact went to DOCCS custody. She was bringing contraband into the facility.”

Brookwood is a facility under the State Office of Children and Family Services for juvenile offenders.

Authorities say they are aware of nine victims, so far, ranging in age from 16 to 18 at the time, and that the sexual assaults happened between 2020 and late 2022.

“And the individuals at Brookwood Secure Center were vulnerable,” said Liberati-Conant. “And they were being told that their freedom depended on participation with Ms. Hayes in sexual activities and with the other activities. So I am pleased that we are able to bring this prosecution, and I am hopeful that we will be able to bring justice to these victims.”

Authorities say each count carries a maximum center of one and a third– to four years behind bars. Hayes is due back in court July 12.