31-Year-Old Accused Of Raping, Endangering Underage Girl: Police

KINGSTON, NY — An underage girl was victimized by a Dutchess County man, according to investigators.

The City of Kingston Police Department says that 31-year-old Ericq L. Pesante, of Poughkeepsie, was arrested on Oct. 22, and charged with felony second-degree rape, and misdemeanor endangering the welfare of a child.

On Sept. 28, Kingston police received a report about a juvenile female victim who was involved in a sexual relationship with an adult man. An investigation by the Detective Division identifed Pesante as a suspect.

During the early morning hours of Oct. 22, Pesante returned to Kingston and again met with the juvenile victim, police said. After authorities were contacted, the two were found together soon after.

Pesante was interviewed and admitted to having a sexual relationship with the minor, and was then charged.

After arraignment in Kingston City Court, he was remanded to the Ulster County Jail on bail. Police say Pesante has since posted bail and is scheduled to appear in Kingston City Court on a future date.

Kingston police say the investigation is ongoing. Anyone with additional information about this case, or who believes they may have been a victim of Pesante, is urged to contact the Kingston Police Department at 845-331-8404, or email Detective Michael DeFrance at this email address.