UPDATE: A 44-year-old man has been charged with multiple counts of child sexual abuse after allegedly inappropriately touching three young girls at a T.J. Maxx store in Medford, New York. Jimmy Harry Velasquez-Gomez pleaded not guilty during his arraignment at the First District Court in Central Islip on Sunday, and is currently being held on $50,000 bail for each felony charge.
Authorities report that the incidents involved a 9-year-old girl, a 7-year-old girl, and an 11-year-old girl, with allegations dating back to October. According to court documents, Velasquez-Gomez is accused of squeezing the buttocks of one victim over her clothing in a shocking display of misconduct.
Prosecutors note that Velasquez-Gomez has a criminal history, including a previous misdemeanor conviction for public lewdness. Despite claims from his defense attorney that he has resided in Suffolk County for five years, records indicate that his residence is listed as being in Honduras.
The alarming nature of these allegations has left local parents in disbelief. “It’s shocking to parents and really startling to a child or a teenager who has no understanding of what’s happening,” stated Laura Ahearn, executive director of the Crime Victims Center. Ahearn urged parents to remain vigilant and to closely supervise their children while shopping. “Don’t let your child or teen walk around the store unaccompanied because sexual predators are looking for that opportunity,” she emphasized.
Detectives are urging anyone who might have been a victim to come forward and contact the Special Victims Section at 631-852-6184. As this case unfolds, community members are encouraged to remain alert and proactive in safeguarding their children.
As shoppers outside the T.J. Maxx shared their concerns, the gravity of the situation weighed heavily on their minds. Many expressed heightened awareness while shopping with their kids and grandkids, reinforcing the importance of vigilance in public spaces.
This case highlights the urgent necessity for community awareness regarding child safety in retail environments. As more information emerges, the public is urged to stay informed and share this critical news. Further developments are expected in the coming days as authorities continue their investigation into Velasquez-Gomez’s actions.
