A Suffolk County jury has convicted a 48-year-old man from Wyandanch, Long Island, for repeatedly sexually assaulting his 12-year-old daughter. The abuse began when the girl moved into her father’s home and continued until she was 14. The victim eventually confided in a friend and a teacher at her school about the ongoing abuse.
The man, whose identity remains undisclosed to protect the victim, was granted custody of his daughter after her out-of-state guardian, a relative, was no longer able to care for her. According to County District Attorney Ray Tierney, the father began grooming and sexually abusing his daughter shortly after she moved in with him.
The father framed his actions as a form of help for his daughter, the District Attorney stated. The abuse escalated to horrifying levels before the victim sought help from trusted individuals in her life.
In a press release, Tierney expressed his sympathy for the victim, stating that she was betrayed and violated by the very person who was supposed to protect her. He acknowledged that the victim would bear the scars of this abuse for the rest of her life, but expressed gratitude that they were able to hold the father accountable for his actions.
The father was found guilty of multiple counts of rape and other violent sexual crimes against a minor, as well as endangering the welfare of a child. The severity of his crimes could result in a prison sentence of up to 50 years. The court has scheduled his sentencing for December 3.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of child protection and the need for vigilance in identifying and reporting suspected abuse. It also underscores the critical role that teachers and friends can play in providing a safe space for victims to disclose abuse and seek help.