According to Oneida County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy…

According to Oneida County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Derrick O’Meara, who is the Director of the Oneida County Child Advocacy Center, a 17-year-old male from the City of Utica was referred to Oneida County Court for engaging in sexual contact with a 12-year-old female.

Sheriff’s Investigator Mark Chrysler was assigned the case on September 14, 2020. The investigation revealed that the acts committed by the 17 year old would constitute one count of Promoting a Sexual Performance by a Child under the Age of 17, a Class D Felony, Sexual Misconduct and Endangering the welfare of a Child, both Class A Misdemeanors, if committed by an adult.

On October 1, 2020, the 17 year old was brought to Oneida County Court due to the new raise the age laws and later turned over to the custody of his father.

The victim has been offered counseling services through the Oneida County Child Advocacy Center and an Order of Protection has been issued by the court.