Teen Suspect Named in Sexual Abuse Case

Harrison 17-year-old John Defonce will appear in Harrison court next month to answer two felony charges after police say he had inappropriate sexual contact with a 10-year-old boy on two occasions in February.

Defonce, of 127 Park Avenue, was arrested on Feb. 16. Police believe the teenager sexually abused the 10-year-old on Feb. 2 and Feb. 9 while serving as the child's babysitter. Defonce is charged with two felony counts of criminal sexual act in the first degree, two felony counts of sexual abuse in the first degree and two counts of endangering the welfare of a child, misdemeanors.

Police afternoon, but refused to give Defonce's name because he is eligible for youthful offender status. Since he is charged with a felony, however, his court records are open to the public.

According to those records, police have accused Defonce of giving oral sex to the 10-year-old victim and allowing the child to fondle his genitals during both incidents at the child's home.

Although he has since turned 17, the alleged events took place when Defonce was 16 years old.

Defonce was arraigned and released on $3,000 bail. He is due in Harrison court next month.